Suffolk launches new digital service to support response to incidents

Suffolk Constabulary is launching a three-month trial using Enhanced Video Response (EVR) across its Response Investigation Teams from 2 January 2025.

This new system will provide 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.

This three-month trial is being launched with the aim of expanding video appointment capability outside that which is already offered by the Domestic Abuse Video Response Team (DAVR).

The process will follow a member of the public calling into the Contact and Control Room (CCR) regarding an incident. Response officers will conduct a suitability review to determine appropriateness of using EVR.

A dedicated team consisting of a Sergeant and six PC’s will monitor the queue and then call the victim(s) to set up a video call. If the victim is not available at that time, a diarised appointment can then be made via the scheduled element.

It's important to make clear victims will still be able to choose to see an officer in person if they wish to for the first statement, initial evidence gathering and future enquiries as the case progresses where appropriate. They will not be given a EVR appointment without first consenting.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Alice Scott said: “The EVR pilot is an exciting step in technological progression, providing greater channel choice to victims when reporting a crime in Suffolk.  Suffolk Constabulary is committed to innovation and wanting to continuously improving how we meet the needs and expectations of our communities. This is another positive step on that journey.”

The service will not cover victims under the age of 18 –  these should still be dealt with face to face by an officer. The service will also not cover offences where the suspect is present or likely to return during the call, where the victim is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, where the victim has no or limited access to WiFi or 4/5G, where the victim has no or limited access to a phone or tablet with camera capabilities, any calls that would need an interpreter or any immediate ‘Grade A’ call.

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “Following the introduction of rapid video response to support victims of domestic last year, I am delighted to see this evolution into enhanced video response to support victims of other crimes.

“The way we communicate with each other is changing and it is important that the Constabulary adapts too. Using technology to support victims, when it is appropriate, is good for the victims and makes the Constabulary more efficient and effective. I fully support this pilot and look forward to being updated on the results in due course.”

You can find out more about the DAVR service here: New digital service to support domestic abuse victims | Suffolk Constabulary