PRESS RELEASE
For release 31st July 2024
New initiative to drive search for missing persons across the UK
A groundbreaking initiative led by a team of experts aims to transform the search for missing persons by harnessing the power of collaborative technology.
The Locate Panel, an expert team formed by missing persons charity Locate International, is set to drive forward revolutionary new software, Quest.
The software, which could support thousands of families across the UK to find their long term missing loved ones, was created as part of a collaboration between Locate International and investigative technology firm Altia.
With someone reported missing in the UK every 90 seconds, and almost 170,000 people reported missing every year, the panel will look to bring a more efficient and comprehensive approach to collecting vital data.
Pulling different resources together into a smart, searchable platform, Quest alleviates pressure on law enforcement agencies’ resources, while applying proactive action towards resolving cases.
Launched in July last year, Quest is an online analytical tool powered by Altia’s Insight software, which collates and links information from family, friends, and associates of those missing to build a clearer picture of what happened.
The software enables seamless sharing of critical information from any member of the public regarding a missing person, empowering users to collect all investigation-related data in one place. It also allows authorities to compare information with unidentified persons data in the event of any possible links.
It can save the police time as well as meaning that more information can be gathered in those critical first hours straight after someone goes missing, enabling those in an investigative role to focus their time and expertise on the investigation knowing they have the most complete and accurate information to work from.
The cherry-picked consultation panel will analyse Quest over a 12-month period to further refine the software, making it a staple for authorities as they look to solve disappearance cases.
Founded by Locate International Director of Quest, Dave Grimstead, the panel will feature Huw Bristow, Altia Chief Technology Officer, as well as academics from Goldsmith University.
The focus of the initiative will be led by Dame Sue Black, a distinguished forensic anthropologist committed to driving positive change in missing persons investigations.
“Currently, data is often fragmented, unclear, and not effectively integrated,” explained founding panel member Dave Grimstead, Director of Quest, Locate International.
He said: “Firstly, it addresses the limitations faced by law enforcement agencies due to resource constraints, which often lead to frustration among both officers and families.
“Secondly, it seeks to alleviate the concerns of families who feel that not enough is being done to find their missing loved ones.
“Lastly, in cases where individuals have been missing for an extended period or have been found deceased, families seek assurance that lessons have been learned to prevent similar incidents in the future.”
Altia, which creates investigative software, partnered with Locate International, which supports families of unsolved missing person cases, to make it easier for people to gather information about their loved ones in the privacy and safety of their own homes.
As well as collecting information, Quest allows police, families, and third parties to quickly obtain comprehensive data which can be analysed as part of an investigation, enhancing collaborative efforts in locating the missing persons.
A key feature includes the ability to retrieve data even after a decade and support for coroners’ inquiries.
The Locate Panel will be tasked with assessing data retrieval mechanisms, supporting law enforcement officers, and identifying areas for improvement to ensure Quest transforms the way we respond to missing person cases on a national and international level.
The learnings will also be used with a view to form a predictive and proactive approach to identify and support those who are at risk of going missing.
The quality of information available to police is another critical issue that will be reviewed by the focus group.
At the end of the evaluation period, the panel plans to present their findings to a government minister with the recommendation for nationwide implementation across police forces.
Huw Bristow, Chief Technology Officer, Altia, said:
“Innovative software has amazing potential to drive forward investigations and truly make a difference for family members who are left in the dark as to where their loved one is.
“Quest can bring about a transformative leap in the search for missing persons, promising more effective, collaborative, and compassionate approaches to resolving these challenging cases. So, it makes sense to assess it to make sure that it delivers on its promise.
“This exciting initiative emphasises a joint approach, engaging the community, and providing better information to aid in missing persons incidents, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it and help make a difference.”
Altia specialises in innovative solutions for digital intelligence and investigation, leveraging advanced technologies while providing software tools and services to law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and corporate entities.
