For more than seven years the FFMPU has provided support to the families and friends of missing persons, extraordinary individuals whose diverse responses to the issues of ‘missing’ are not often understood. Many of the families and friends of missing people in contact with the FFMPU have revealed that they have at times felt dismissed, dismayed and disappointed by family, friends and professionals’ reactions to their unresolved loss.

An evaluation of client services was conducted between January and November 2007 to ensure that the FFMPU provides the best possible service. The questionnaire drew a 36 percent response rate. The great news is that the responses highlighted the fact that clients value the breadth, flexibility and quality of services provided by the FFMPU. Respondents indicated they appreciated that they were able to access the variety of FFMPU services as they needed them, whether that was for crisis intervention, ongoing support/counselling, information and referral or even a relatively straightforward search inquiry. Some clients commented that after speaking with FFMPU staff they felt understood for the first time in their journey for their missing loved one.

Of course, there are always improvements to be made. Some respondents indicated that they only became aware of the services offered by the FFMPU quite late and would have preferred to have been connected with support much earlier. Clearly there is a need to continue to work towards immediate referral from police and other search agencies. Clients also indicated that they might like more assistance with managing media and the organisation of events so that family and friends can come together and support one another in a social setting.

The FFMPU thanks everyone who participated. Furthermore the FFMPU will endeavour to continue to provide the best quality and most appropriate services possible to the loved ones of missing persons.