What am I going to need to start a SAR unit?
Does my area need a SAR unit?
What does it cost to start & run a SAR unit?
How does my unit become affiliated to ALSAR?
Why should my unit affiliate to ALSAR?
What happens during the ALSAR probation period?
How do I get my members trained in search skills?
How do I establish if my area is already covered by an existing unit?
What is the best way to advertise to potential unit members?
How should we manage the unit?

What am I going to need to start a SAR unit?

Commitment, drive and enthusiasm are the key attributes you will need. Its also best to contact an existing ALSAR unit - They will all be happy to help and answer any questions that you may have.

Does my area need a SAR unit?

Ask ALSAR! We are in contact with all of the UK Police services and we will be able to advise you as to whether to start a unit or join an existing unit if the area is already covered. We are always keen to set up units in areas that do not have any form of existing cover.

What does it cost to start & run a SAR unit?

You will find that it will cost more in time than it does in money. In terms of practical costs, Initially the bulk of these are likely to be for photocopying and stamps. As the unit becomes established it can start to focus on fundraising to enable it to purchase equipment or vehicles etc. 

How does my unit become affiliated to ALSAR?

You will need to contact ALSAR, who will allocate a sponsoring unit and grant your unit probationary status. From this point you will have 12 months to fully meet all standards laid down in the ACOP (Approved Code of Practice) Once you meet all of our guidelines and standards you may (with the agreement of your sponsor) apply for upgrade to full membership.

Why should my unit affiliate to ALSAR?

1. Standardised training programmes and courses
2. Reduced cost training
3. National recognition for the unit as part of UK SAR
4. Nationally recognised peer organisation
5. Negotiated deals for equipment and services
6. Mutual aid arrangements with other ALSAR units

What happens during the ALSAR probation period?

Can my unit be a member of both ALSAR and an MRC region?
ALSAR sees no reason why this should be a problem but it would be for the individual unit to ensure that it is able to meet the requirements of the organisations that it seeks to join.

How do I get my members trained in search skills?

Some ALSAR units run Search Skills courses. They are usually taught over a weekend and take a new member through everything they need to know to become a safe and competent searcher. These courses are normally run at little or no cost for ALSAR units.

How do I establish if my area is already covered by an existing unit?

Telephone email or write to ALSAR - We will always be able to tell you what unit (MRC or ALSAR or independent) work in a particular area. We can usually get you contact details for that unit should you wish to approach them directly.

What is the best way to advertise to potential unit members?

Papers, Police stations, libraries. Radio programmes along with social networking web sites offer a good hit rate as well as displaying at public events.

How should we manage the unit?

Most units find that a democratic management unit works best - This way the whole membership gets a say in the running of the unit by electing the people that they want.