Kenneth missing from Newham University Hospital: Police urge public not to approach

Key Points:

• Kenneth, a wheelchair user, was last seen leaving Newham University Hospital in Plaistow.
• The incident occurred at 6:20pm on Monday, 26 May 2025.
• He was wearing a grey Lonsdale hoodie, black jeans, and a black jacket.
• Police are urging the public not to approach him but to call 999 with reference CAD 252/26May.
• The case has been reported by Poppy Huggett of the Newham Recorder.
• The Metropolitan Police have issued a formal statement with a physical description and guidance for the public.
• Kenneth’s disappearance adds to concerns around vulnerable missing persons in Newham.

A man named Kenneth, who uses a wheelchair, has gone missing after being last seen leaving Newham University Hospital in Plaistow, prompting an urgent public alert from police.

According to Poppy Huggett of the Newham Recorder, the Metropolitan Police are calling on the public to assist in locating Kenneth but strongly advise against approaching him. Instead, anyone who sees Kenneth is urged to contact emergency services immediately.

What are the full details of Kenneth’s disappearance?

Where and when was Kenneth last seen?

As reported by Poppy Huggett of the Newham Recorder, Kenneth was last seen at 6:20pm on Monday, 26 May, exiting Newham University Hospital in Plaistow, east London.

What was Kenneth wearing?

Kenneth was described as wearing a grey Lonsdale hoodie, black jeans, and a black jacket at the time he was last seen.

Does Kenneth have any medical or mobility concerns?

Kenneth uses a wheelchair, and this has raised additional concerns for his safety given the risks posed by mobility challenges in an urban setting.

What have police said about the case?

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson, quoted in the Newham Recorder article by Poppy Huggett, stated:

“Kenneth was last seen leaving Newham University Hospital in Plaistow at 6.20pm on 26 May.
He was wearing a grey Lonsdale hoodie, black jeans and jacket.
He uses a wheelchair.
If you see him, please do not approach him, but call 999 quoting CAD 252/26May.”

The police’s caution not to approach Kenneth may reflect unknown medical or psychological concerns, which is standard protocol in such cases.

How can the public help?

What should people do if they see Kenneth?

Anyone who sees Kenneth is urged to avoid direct contact and instead call 999 immediately, referencing CAD 252/26May. Time is considered critical in missing person cases, especially involving vulnerable individuals.

How common are missing persons cases in Newham?

What is the broader context?

Newham has historically seen a high number of missing person reports. For example, in 2018, the borough recorded over 1,280 missing person cases, reflecting the significant safeguarding challenges in the area.

Are there local safeguarding protocols?

Yes, Newham follows the Herbert Protocol, a nationwide initiative designed to support the safe return of vulnerable people—particularly those with dementia or mobility impairments. The protocol encourages families and carers to provide detailed personal information in advance to help police locate someone quickly if they go missing.

What role does Newham University Hospital play in such cases?

Does the hospital work with police?

Yes, hospitals like Newham University Hospital, which operates under the Barts Health NHS Trust, are essential partners in missing persons investigations. While there is no suggestion of fault in Kenneth’s case, hospitals often coordinate with law enforcement to safeguard vulnerable patients during and after treatment or discharge.

Are there other safety concerns in the area?

Kenneth’s disappearance occurs amid a series of public safety issues in east London. As noted in previous reports by local media, Newham has seen violent crimes and mental health-related incidents that place additional strain on police and social services. The risk factors increase when vulnerable people go missing, particularly in urban settings like Plaistow.

Why is this case significant?

Kenneth’s disappearance underlines the urgent need for public cooperation in protecting the welfare of vulnerable individuals. His reliance on a wheelchair, combined with his sudden departure from hospital care, raises questions about his wellbeing and possible disorientation. Police have not disclosed whether Kenneth left voluntarily or if there are further medical concerns, but they are treating the matter seriously.

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