EVEN ON THE TOUGHGEST SEARCHES, %%WE SHOW UP%%
Rachel Bean gives a first-person reflection, sharing her experience responding to a high-profile search for a missing young person. The story offers a powerful insight into what it feels like to be deployed, how our teams work together in uncertain and emotional circumstances, and why - despite the challenges - our volunteers continue to show up, ready to help, day or night.
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"WITH LOTS OF %%MEDIA ATTENTION%% IT WAS CLEARly HIGH-PROFILE"
We got the call during the day - and like we always do, my husband and I paused for a moment to work out who would go. Volunteering as a couple means you learn to weigh up skills, timing, and where we can make the biggest difference.
This time, it involved a young person. We agreed - this was one for me.
The search was out of area, so I grabbed my gear and hit the road. I’ve done this enough times now that there’s a rhythm to it – but it never really feels routine. My mind ticks over with familiar questions: Will we find them? Will there be many others on the ground? Is everything in place?
When I arrived, it was clear this was a high-profile search. There was a lot of media attention, and the atmosphere was understandably tense. After signing in, I spotted a few familiar faces and shared a few quiet words - a moment of connection before deployment.
"CLOSURE MATTERS, BRINGING LOVED ONES %%HOME%%"
Our team that day was mixed - some from LonSAR, others from neighbouring Lowland Rescue teams. It’s something I’ve always found grounding: even in new terrain, there’s an unspoken bond among search volunteers. You trust each other. You get on with the task.
As we moved through the search area, messages started to filter through. The mood changed. After a few moments of confusion, the radio brought clarity: a body had been found. We were stood down.
When we returned to the RV, we were asked to redeploy to search for evidence. It was dark by then - and night searching changes everything. Your senses sharpen, and your focus deepens.
The presence of media following us added another layer. It’s distracting and, at times, uncomfortable - but our attention stays where it’s needed.
Eventually, we were stood down for good. It wasn’t the outcome we’d hoped for. But closure matters. And so we keep showing up - because even on the hardest days, we know that every effort helps bring someone home, or brings families closer to answers.
WITHOUT %%YOU%%, WE ARE LOST
Help keep vital search operations like this going. Your donation ensures our volunteers have the training, equipment, and support needed to respond 24/7 to searches for vulnerable missing people. Become a regular supporter and make a lasting difference today.
A MONTH KEEPS A SEARCH TECH WARM WITH A MID-LAYER WHEN YOU DONATE REGULARLY OVER THE YEAR
KEEPS OUR INCIDENT CONTROL VEHICLES FUELLED AND READY TO GO WHEN YOU DONATE MONTHLY
DONATED EACH MONTH TRAINS A SEARCH TECH IN NAVIGATION TO NATIONAL STANDARDS
Join us in making a
Difference
Your support can help us find missing persons and bring hope to families in need.
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