DOZENS of children's homes across the region will benefit from a new protocol being rolled out to safeguard young people.

The Philomena Protocol, named after the patron saint of babies, infants and youths, is the first of its kind in the country being introduced by Durham Police across their force area.

Building on the success and learning from the Herbert Protocol – an initiative to support adults who are at risk of going missing – the Philomena Protocol will be brought in to 48 children’s homes later this year.

Working alongside partners in the council, it encourages carers, staff, families and friends to compile useful information which could be used if a young person goes missing from care.

Durham Police's Deputy Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “There is nothing more distressing than when a young person goes missing and does not return home when expected.

“The Philomena Protocol will help adults to locate the young person and return them to safety as quickly as possible.”

The scheme is designed to protect the young and vulnerable whilst respecting and understanding their need for independence.

Durham Police also expect the protocol to potentially save lives of vulnerable youngsters, by working with children’s homes to establish patterns of behaviour, places they frequently visit and storing an up-to-date photograph and medication list.

Ron Hogg, Durham Police Crime and Victims’ Commissioner, said: “This new protocol is a fabulous idea, and will help to further enhance the excellent partnership working in place across County Durham and Darlington.

"It will help to protect our young people when they are at the most vulnerable, and enable services to respond quickly.”

For more information, or to discuss someone who may benefit from the Philomena Protocol, email erase@durham.pnn.police.uk