Sir Ranulph Fiennes’s relatives say they have been unable to contact or visit the 82-year-old explorer, describing his apparent isolation as painful. Their concerns have drawn attention amid reports that he has stayed in care homes under assumed names following a family rift involving his second wife.

His stepson has called for the power of attorney held by his mother to be transferred to people he believes will act in Fiennes’s best interests. Cheshire Police say they are aware of the concerns and are satisfied he is receiving suitable care, with no immediate safeguarding concerns. Fiennes, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020, has not been seen publicly for nearly two years; relatives say one of them saw him in a care home in July 2025 and that he asked her to send his love to family and friends.