Encouraging start for digital service for domestic abuse victims

A new service that uses digital technology to support victims of domestic abuse is receiving a high level of satisfaction from users since it was introduced.

The rapid video response team provides victims with the option of speaking with a police officer remotely and promptly via a video link to obtain immediate details of the incident and initial evidence.

It is run from the Contact and Control Room and follows a three-month pilot of the scheme last year.

Funded by precept investment following the Police and Crime Commissioner’s decision to increase the policing element of the council tax in this financial year, the scheme sees the team take calls between 8am and 10pm.

A survey of victims found that 95% of respondents were either ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with the service and 92% preferring the virtual service.

The project has also received Home Office funding. The CCR staff who risk assess all calls they receive, offer victims of domestic abuse a rapid initial video call to be conducted by the team. The CCR only offer the remote call if they have established with the victim it is safe to do so, also that the victim does not require a face to face meeting. If the victim accepts, a first account of the incident can be obtained as well as any further evidential material that may prove useful in a prosecution.

Victims can still be able to choose to see an officer in person if they wish to for the first statement and initial evidence gathering and for future enquiries as the case progresses.

The rapid video response team also provides the alternative of a scheduled appointment option, again remotely, to allow a member of the team to collect evidence. The team, who are fully trained in domestic abuse response and support of victims. consists of three police officers, six police support investigator posts, an administrative assistant and a sergeant.

Since the start of the year, there has been a gradual increase in the number of calls into the CCR serviced by the rapid video response team. Since May, August saw the highest number of calls so far with 66 calls serviced. Those calls not serviced by the rapid video response team are dealt with as normal as appropriate by the Contact and Control Room or local police officers in the County Policing Command.

Assistant Chief Constable Eamonn Bridger said: “We will always seek to take positive action against perpetrators of domestic abuse. Victims are our top priority in any domestic abuse investigation and we work to gather and secure evidence at the earliest stag in order to gain a successful conviction.

“These early figures support that victims appreciate the choice provided by this innovative service and it is very encouraging to see that where the surveys have been completed there is an overwhelmingly positive response from victims that have been engaged with."

“We still feel there are a large number of calls into the CCR that could be serviced by the video response team and a new diary service went live in September so we will continue to closely track the progress of the service in the months ahead.

“By providing this alternative option to victims it gives increased flexibility to speak to a police officer about their ordeal and in a safe way. It can reduce waiting time for victims to see an officer, a prompt collection of initial evidence and the opportunity to support and signpost the victim.

“People should also feel reassured the software allows the ability to share digital evidence and documentation that meets the evidential standard needed to secure justice.”

“Domestic abuse is a key priority that needs sensitive handling so this service ensures the victim has choice. Choice to discuss the incident remotely, discreetly and safely in the first instance with a trained police officer. It’s a clear demonstration of how we are continuing to provide a professional yet compassionate service to the community at their time of need.”

The service doesn’t cover victims under the age of 18 – these will need to be seen still face to face by an officer. It also doesn’t cover offences where the suspect is present or likely to return during the rapid video response call, any calls that would need an interpreter and any sexual offences or any immediate ‘Grade A’ call.

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore added: “I am pleased to see the investment in rapid video response is already showing such positive results.

“The rapid video response does exactly what the name suggests and is an excellent example of where technology can help not only the Constabulary, but more importantly, the victim too. 

“If victims feel comfortable to do so, recording an immediate account of the incident and showing visible signs of the abuse could prove invaluable in securing a successful prosecution, I am sure taxpayers in Suffolk will agree this is excellent value for their money.”

Month	CADs serviced by rapid video response team	Total domestic abuse CADs per month
April	34	896
May	66	1026
June	43	1051
July	53	1096
Aug	62	1230

Calls not serviced by the rapid video response team are dealt with as normal as appropriate by the Contact and Control Room or local police officers in the County Policing Command.