Sussex Police Adopts New Protocol To Better Support Vulnerable Veterans

Sussex Police has adopted the Forcer Protocol, a new initiative aimed at helping officers identify and safeguard vulnerable armed forces veterans, particularly if they go missing.

Launched at the West Sussex Armed Forces Conference in Horsham on Friday, the protocol allows families and carers to share important information with police in advance, enabling a faster and more informed response during high-risk incidents.

The scheme was created by Claire Lilly following the death of her former husband, veteran Lance Corporal Alan James Forcer, who took his own life after going missing in 2020 while struggling with PTSD.

Detective Chief Superintendent Matt Barcraft-Barnes, Armed Forces Lead for Surrey and Sussex Police, said the protocol would help officers quickly locate and protect vulnerable veterans who need support.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne welcomed the move, describing it as an important step in strengthening support for the county's armed forces community through closer partnership working.