Devon dementia scheme launches new tool to help ‘protect vulnerable people’
A new police-backed safeguarding scheme is being introduced as dementia continues to present challenges for local families, with 194 missing adults recorded across Devon and Cornwall in the past year
A new dementia safeguarding scheme is being rolled out across Devon and Cornwall to help people living with the condition remain safe and independent.
Backed by Devon & Cornwall Police, Memory Matters and technology company Lumiio, the initiative using Near Field Communication (NFC) enabled wristbands and hang tags containing important personal information that can be accessed using a smartphone.
The scheme is already being implemented in Plymouth, and is expected to expand across the wider Devon and Cornwall area.
Devices use NFC technology similar to that found in contactless bank cards and mobile payment systems.
Information such as emergency contacts, medical conditions, communication preferences, medication details and care needs can be stored on the tags and viewed by ‘tapping and holding the wristband or tag’ on an NFC-enabled phone.
Supporters say the system could help people living with dementia who become lost, confused or distressed in public places by providing vital information to members of the public, carers or emergency services.
According to information shared by Devon & Cornwall Police, 194 missing adults with dementia or Alzheimer's were recorded in the force area between January 2025 and January 2026.
Sergeant Dan Timmins of Devon & Cornwall Police said: "This is a scheme that I hope will empower and safeguard a lot of people to live independently.
"Living with dementia can be challenging, and we see many people who repeatedly go missing.
“People with dementia who go missing are extremely vulnerable, and these devices can quickly prevent these individuals from coming to harm, sometimes even before emergency services need to be contacted."
He added: "I want to encourage people to be upstanders and help anyone who looks lost or confused, whether they are wearing one of our devices or not. Taking a few seconds out of your day to check on someone can make a world of difference."
Research shared to The Moorlander by Lumiio also indicated that 1 in 3 of us will develop some form of dementia, and that 70 per cent of people living with dementia will go missing at least once in their lifetime.
Memory Matters, a Plymouth-based dementia charity, is supporting the initiative through charitable funding.
Kate Smith, chief executive of Memory Matters, said: "Too often, people living with dementia and their families are left carrying the fear and stress of someone becoming lost or disorientated.
"This scheme is about giving people greater confidence, independence and safety, while also giving families peace of mind.
A Lumiio spokesperson told The Moorlander that the technology was designed to make essential information accessible when somebody may need help.
"Supporting vulnerable individuals by making essential personal information easily accessible in critical situations has never been more important,” they said.
"Lumiio acts as a trusted bridge between individuals, communities and support services, and with the backing of Devon & Cornwall Police and Memory Matters, this initiative has the potential to make a meaningful difference to so many lives."
Police say the tags do not act as GPS trackers. However, they can help people who find someone who appears lost or confused access information that may assist them in getting support quickly.
Alongside the NFC devices, Devon & Cornwall Police are also using Bluetooth tracking devices as part of wider efforts to support people living with dementia.
Residents, carers and family members interested in joining the scheme can register through Devon & Cornwall Police's Dementia Safeguarding Scheme.
People in Devon and Cornwall can access the scheme through the Devon and Cornwall Police website, with safeguarding products also available directly through the Lumiio website and social media channels.