Dr Alun Newsome

HM Coastguard’s Advancement of Lost and Missing Persons Search: Improving techniques, systems and methods to maximise success in operational delivery:

Alun is the HM Coastguard’s strategic lead for the Lost and Missing Persons Search portfolio. With twenty years voluntary experience in frontline emergency services and eleven years with HM Coastguard, he has comprehensive experience of both volunteer and full-time officer management and incident command at operational, tactical and strategic levels. Holding specialist qualifications in both maritime and land search, he has been uniquely placed to lead the policy and operational revision of Lost and Missing Persons Search. The last seven years have seen significant advancements in technology and fieldcraft, and the development of a digital common operating picture. This session will explore key milestones, including the adoption of software, revision of foundation and specialist training and enhanced role definition, bringing enhanced command, control and coordination across maritime, coastal and aeronautical operations. In the context of multiagency response and maximising interoperability, the role of the Coastguard search adviser, developed in collaboration with the Police National Search Centre and increased engagement with police search advisers across the UK, has also significantly enhanced search assurance and effective rescue operations, ultimately saving lives along the UK coastline. As HM Coastguard has expanded its capabilities to fulfil Category One responder duties under the Civil Contingencies Act, the role and place of search has remained at the heart of our endeavour: to search, to rescue, to save.