Police launch Vulnerable Person Registry to protect and support vulnerable community members

The Lethbridge Police Service is proud to announce the launch of its new Vulnerable Person Registry (VPR), a vital tool developed to enhance the safety and well-being of individuals who may require additional assistance during emergencies or high-stress situations.

Designed for those who live, work and/or attend school in Lethbridge, the VPR is free of charge and entirely voluntary. Individuals and their guardians can provide police with key details about medical conditions, emergency contacts, preferred communication methods, sensory preferences and other pertinent information.

"When we equip our officers with detailed, individualized information, we ensure that they can address complicated situations in a way that maintains the dignity and respect of everyone involved,” says Lethbridge Police Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh.

The Vulnerable Person Registry was spearheaded by Cst. Karly Easter who, through her experience with the Police and Crisis Team (PACT), understands firsthand the value of having timely and accurate information in responding to crisis situations.

Whether it’s locating a non-verbal individual who has gone missing or managing an emergency where someone may need more assistance dealing with uncertainty, we want to make sure that our approach meets their needs,” explains Easter. “When time allows, this tool will help us de-escalate tension, coordinate resources and restore safety as quickly as possible.”

In addition to providing law-enforcement with timely information, the VPR also issues a card and decal that helps police recognize registrants. These visual identifiers can further aid anyone assisting a vulnerable person by facilitating identification and connecting them with their emergency contact.

For more information about the Vulnerable Person Registry, or to submit a registration, visit the Lethbridge Police Service website at: https://www.lethbridgepolice.ca/reporting-and-services/vulnerable-person-registry/.