Waltham Forest Borough

Report: 2
Report for the Domestic and Sexual Violence Board
Date: 1 June 2010
By Detective Inspector Jane Gyford

B1: Data for Domestic/Sexual Violence BOCU and Serious sexual offences (including rape) investigated by SCD2

2009/2010 has shown Waltham Forest Borough Police to have been in the top 10 for the highest number of reports of Domestic Violence within the Metropolitan Police District. WF Borough is termed as an ‘outer’ London Borough and this should be borne in mind when considering the volume of DV crimes and reports compared to some inner London boroughs with equivalent volume. WF is set performance targets for the year around sanction detection and arrest rates. The target for 2009/2010 was 44% sanction detection rate and 70% arrest rate. The Community Safety Unit exceeded both of these targets which closed the year at 48.1%% for sanction detections and 77.1% for arrests.

B2: Policy compliance and quality assurance.

How does the (B)OCU and SCD2 use risk assessment and risk management tools to ensure victims/survivors are made safer, and that perpetrators are made accountable for their behaviour?

2.1. The first risk assessment takes place following the initial call to Police however that is made. If to the Central Command Complex the call is graded and quality assured by METCALL and Integrated Borough Operations Supervisor (IBOS). All active DV incidents are initially classified as ‘I’ where the initial response is within 12 minutes. In this period there were 19,245 calls shown as Type ‘I’ of which 2,911 were DV calls. 1,456 were responded to within 12 minutes, equating to 50 %. 860 were ‘S’ calls and 378 were responded to within 60 minutes, this equating to 44%. 15.1% of all ‘I’ calls originate as DV incidents and 6.5% of all ‘S’ calls originate as DV incidents. If the first contact with police is made by way of attendance at the station office, then a 124D and risk assessment will be completed and a crime report created. If a report is made by other means, then a crime report will be created with a risk assessment therein.

2.2. On arrival to any DV call, the initial investigating officer will risk assess the situation and complete a book 124d which clearly outlines the minimum levels of risk assessment using the ‘SPECCS+’ model. The officer will manage the risks using the ‘RARA’ model. Due to the MPS positive arrest policy this will, in the vast majority of cases, involve the arrest and removal of the suspect from the scene. The information is transferred onto a report at the earliest opportunity and is supervised by the Duty Sergeant, or if not available then another sergeant , to supervise at the time or just after the incident. This ensures that the correct risk assessment is made and that any further action to manage the risk is identified as soon as possible. It is later supervised by a DS on the CSU as they take responsibility of supervising secondary investigation. The 124d will include detailed notes from the officer, a witness statement from the victim and authority to obtain medical evidence if that is required for a prosecution. These details are obtained at the time of reporting to enable the CSU to investigate the matter expeditiously enabling a positive disposal decision, remand and court appearance if appropriate. Where an immediate charge is not viable, or a charge with bail is appropriate, then strict bail conditions will be imposed to ensure the safety of the victim and any children.

2.3. The investigation is allocated to an investigator within the CSU. The officer will carry out detailed research for any previous incidents or intelligence of note to enable them to review the current risk assessment. They will also review the risk management strategy and acknowledged compliance with DV SOP. If necessary they will devise an investigative strategy for risk management and ensure additional measures & refer to our partner agencies are in place. All investigations are supervised by a Detective Sergeant. At the conclusion of the investigation there will be a further risk assessment/management which is supervised by a CSU Detective Sergeant before the case is completed. High risk DV cases and cases with exceptional circumstances and repeat victims are referred to the MARAC who meet monthly to share information between agencies working in partnership within strict protocols to reduce the risk to the victim and any children.

2.4. There is a daily risk management meeting which is attended by the CSU Detective Inspector and outstanding risk issues are fed back to the Daily Management Meeting. Outstanding suspects are managed within the CSU with a working protocol of high risk case to be circulated as wanted within 48 hours, other cases to be circulated as wanted within 5 days. The outstanding suspects are subject to a VAFOM meeting (Violent and Forensic Offender Management) every two weeks, where the CSU DI will be in attendance. All outstanding suspects are discussed and managed during this meeting, which includes suspects not circulated and suspects circulated.

2.5. Specific to sexual violence offences similar practices are utilised, the IIO obtaining a first account and recording as appropriate. Initial Risk Assessments are also determined (often the IIO shall utilise the Book 124d as an aide to the initial investigation), again the RARA model being used to ensure appropriate risk management tactics are employed. A CRIS report is also entered, fulfilling the same requirements as above. For those sex offences where the investigation remains with WF BOCU the matter is passed to the CSU DI - at this time the same DI fulfils both roles and hence their supervision remains identical. Where there is a disclosure of rape or a serious sexual offence then the investigation is immediately referred to SCD2. Following the initial report a trained SOIT officer will be assigned to be with the victim within an hour, regardless of the amount of time that has passed since the incident occurred. The SOIT along with the IIO will carry out a detailed risk assessment. This will be documented within the SOIT log and the CRIS report. The investigation of serious sexual offences in domestic circumstances can often be more complex than for the majority of other DV offences. The investigation of serious sexual offences is victim focused but the DV Positive Action Policy is adhered to. When considering a prosecution, the wishes of the victim are only overridden in cases of public interest.

2.6. SCD2 Intelligence Unit reviews all sexual offences reported to Police over the previous 24 hours. Investigations of note, such as ‘Stranger One’, where there is no previous connection. ‘Stranger Two’ where there has been a brief acquaintance or association, group, linked or high profile offences are discussed at the SCD2 DMM. Forensic Strategies are also discussed with the BFM in relation to scenes and where appropriate prior to suspect arrest, taking into account the risk to the victim and the general public. Risk assessments are subject to constant review in line with Standard Operating Procedures.

2.7. Where the risk assessment has been identified as medium or high, the CSU Detective Sergeant or SCD2 SOIT (as the offence dictates) completes a further Part 2 risk assessment, further exploring the history of the relationship and risk factors. This is then documented recorded on the CRIS report.

What processes are in place to support officers and ensure that they are effectively implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), especially in cases where several procedures may be relevant to particular cases.

3.1. Both BOCU & SCD2 operate the MPS Standard Operating Procedures for the investigation of Serious Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence. There is specific training around Domestic & Sexual Violence investigations at Foundation stage in joining the MPS. Officers also complete an attachment to the Community Safety Unit (CSU) working alongside an experienced detective to highlight the practical advantages of thorough initial investigation and documentation. Officers receive additional training in domestic violence through the (B)OCU Training Unit. The last round of (B)OCU DV training involved a full day for all operational police officers with input into completing risk assessments and guidance on minimum standards of evidence in the Book 124d. Upcoming training in 2010 will build on the risk assessment/management training utilising the ‘DASH’ model which is also available now to all officers/staff via the online training packages. All new CSU officers will receive a comprehensive training package re the local support services for victims of DV from the Crisis Intervention Officer.

3.2. The levels of supervision and scrutiny in DV incidents are managed throughout the investigation by a DS and dip sampled as per DI CSU Manager job description dictates. Also, many investigations are overseen by The Violent Crime Directorate and in an advisory capacity will assist with actions that are required in each investigation, considering different SOPs and working practises.

3.3. They are requires to attend a 5 day CSU course and are also offered courses to refresh and enhance the interview skills. There is also practical advice available to all officers via the CSU Service Delivery Team.

3.4. The CSU is staffed between 8am and 10pm every day so officers are available to provide advice to front line officers during those times. Outside of those times there are two BOCU detectives on duty as well as the ‘On Call’ Detective Inspector. The CSU also have an allocated mobile phone which has been circulated to all JC Officers to use if they require advice or assistance on any CSU matter. The phone is held by the Early turn and late turn Detective Sergeants. Each of the four CSU teams has been aligned to a specific uniformed response team, whereby continual liaison has assisted with the investigation of CSU crimes and support for the victims and witnesses of such crimes. Monthly meetings are held between the CSU team and response team to ensure both policing units information share and better working protocols are established.

3.5. SCD2 is staffed from Barkingside between 7am and 11pm seven days a week. Outside of these hours SCD2 supplies four DCs and four SOIT officers across London who are accessible via the SCD2 reserve desk. With such staffing expert advice is readily available for all officers.

3.6. All CSU and SCD2 investigations are subject to a formal review process, involving initial front line supervision followed in due course by CSU or SCD2 DS, DI and DCI in accordance with the relevant SOP’s. The CSU and SCD2 Detective Inspectors conduct daily searches of domestic and sexual offences on the CRIS system to ensure that policy is being adhered to and sexual assaults are allocated at an early stage to the appropriate investigative unit (TP, SCD2 or SCD5).

What work is being done to ensure that the 124D (or DASH 2008) form is being used consistently across the borough in 100% of domestic violence cases and that the information it collects is being entered onto the relevant MPS IT assets/systems e.g.CRIS, MERLIN, CRIMINT?

4.1. The 124d ‘Domestic Violence Investigation/Arrest Form’ is currently being used in the majority of DV reports on Waltham Forest Borough, the exception being some reports made at the Front Counter of police stations. In recent time front counter clerks have been provided training locally in reporting DV and the usage of 124Ds. Continuing input to the initial investigating officers is being undertaken by CSU supervisors to ensure that a greater appreciation of why this form is to be used is communicated. The overarching reason being as a risk management tool. The usage of the 124D is monitored by data collection from CRIS. Each IIO utilises the SPECSS+ model that appears in the 124D. This is always inputted onto CRIS. The 124D is supervised by both the line manager of the IIO and subsequently by the CSU DS. Both MERLIN and EWMS are used in conjunction with CRIS and any intelligence related information is naturally forwarded to the BIU JC to ensure NIM compliancy.

4.2. The 124ds once completed are deposited within the IBO and logged into a register reference number is added. The 124ds are collected by CSU officers on a daily basis where they are filed within the unit and given a CSU reference number. The CSU DS will also quality assure the initial investigation for all cases before they are allocated for further investigation to a CSU investigator.

4.3. Outstanding suspects whether circulated or not are discussed fully at the Violent and Forensic Offender Management Meetings, which are held every two weeks. Each case is looked at for risk management, number of days allocated and outstanding and what actions have been taken to identify the whereabouts of the suspect.

How does the (B)OCU and SCD2 support staff / officers who are experiencing domestic violence, and ensure suspected staff / officer perpetrators of domestic violence and sexual violence are held accountable for their behaviour.

5.1. In this reporting period there has been two notable reports involving Police Officers as both the alleged suspect and the alleged victim of DV. There were no reports involving Police staff as victims or suspects. There is no difference as to how the suspects and/or victims of DV are treated when they are also part of the ‘police family’. One matter was referred to me from DI Trevers from Redbridge police and was allocated to a DS from JC. The CRIS was given restricted access only to ensure human rights were adhered to and no compromise could be alleged. Also, any other reports created from this were also restricted and/or flagged as sensitive. Both matters were fully investigated and the DV SOP applied in each case. Support services were offered and CPS advice sought on one of the cases.

5.2. The Directorate of Professional Standards or equivalent in other forces are informed of any matter involving both police officers and police staff in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures. Due to the Taylor recommendations, it is now common place for BOCUs to deal with matters where police officers are involved, the caveat being where an officer or police staff are being investigated for gross misconduct then this would be investigated by The DPS. Other matters now stay within the BOCU’s control.

How do SCD2/ the (B)OCU respond to cases of sexual and/ or domestic violence in which there are counter allegations, multiple victims or multiple perpetrators. How many of these are there?

6.1. Counter allegations between parties are common within DV allegations, often there is no other corroborative evidence. To ensure that the initial police action is SOP compliant, all response officers are aware that establishing the aggressor is key to initiating an investigation into the alleged DV crime. Once this has been done and the aggressor arrested, then CSU officers will conduct secondary investigations into the circumstances. An independent CSU officer will be tasked to complete further arrest enquiries if counter allegations have been made.

6.2. Counter allegations in sexual assaults are not common. In these case suspects use the defence of consent or complete denial rather than suggesting that they are victims. Similarly to the paragraph above, the application of SOP’s in regards to the primary investigation of crime and the Sexual Offences SOP’s determine a need for thoroughness and as such prevents most circumstances of cross alleging. In the reporting period there has been one allegation of serious sexual assault which has come a cross allegation.

6.3. There have been 61 cases in this reporting period where more than 1 suspect has been shown on the CRIS report. For the same reporting period there were 87 CRIS reports where multiple unique victims were shown.

6.4. Honour Based Violence can present multiple victims and suspects. SOP compliance is essential in these cases. All victims/potential victims of HBV have their photograph, fingerprints and DNA taken. Also, body mapping is considered and if appropriate completed and stored on file within the BOCU. DNa can now be submitted and profiled and fingerprints submitted, both for population on the relevant databases. Risk to the victims is assessed first and will be managed before any arrests and/or interviews of suspects take place.

B3: Partnership working and Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (CDRP)

What is the funding dedicated to tackling domestic and sexual violence from within the overall CDRP budget?

7.1. £35,000.00 additional expenditure has been approved by The SafetyNet Board for the Crisis intervention Officer. Support for victims of domestic violence and sexual violence totals £198, 500.00.

7.2. Also part of a joint funding scheme between Waltham Forest Police and local Authority is the post of Crisis Intervention Officer, costing £35,000.00 per annum. This provides a fast time service for high risk DV/SV cases to ensure the safety of the victims is upheld from the very start of the investigation.

7.3 The DV/SV Coordinator’s post is funded by WF Local authority from core funding and in addition to the above. This role enables strategic liaison across all partner agencies to assist with delivery of the CDRP and the SafetyNet delivery plan.

Is domestic violence and sexual violence considered as part of the annual Strategic Assessment ? Has domestic and sexual violence been identified as a priority within the Partnership Plan?

8.1. DV/SV were both part of the strategic assessment and have been for the last few years. DV was selected as both a CDRP priority and the 2010/2011 policing priority. National indicators are set and all partner agencies are responsible for providing data to assist with all strategic overviews. NI15 is a local authority target, which deals with the management of DV. NI32 refers to the formation of MARACS and reduction of repeat victimization for which baseline data is still being collated as the Marac in Waltham Forest was not operational until mid 2009.

8.2 The Crown Prosecution Service authorised 295 DV prosecutions in the reporting period of which,178 successful,117 unsuccessful,20 key witness did not support the prosecution and 26 victim refused to give evidence

Are there are any CDRP domestic and/or sexual violence projects in progress?

9.1. The Stay Safe Project has just been initiated by Disability Action Waltham Forest to provide specialist support for persons with disabilities. This will include learning, physical, sensory, mental health and any other disability that may require specialist support. This will be available for all DV/SV victims, and moreover for all hate crime victims. At the next DV/SV Board for WF a ‘stay safe’ presentation will be received by the board to assist with an understanding of the aims and objectives of the project. A presentation at the monthly MARAC and long term membership is also planned.

9.2. Ashiana has a dual role within WF. They provide a referral and counseling service for DV/SV victims and victims of forced marriage and honour based violence, of all genders, and also a support service for South Asian women. Funding was recently awarded to Ashiana for the rape and sexual violence counseling programme. They employ specialist counselors for the project and have built in systems to monitor and review their progress and working systems.

9.3. Report it is a support service that offer legal advice for all victims of DV/SV. They employ trained lawyers and can assist where non molestations orders are required. They also are able to reach minority groups as they are part of the Refugee Council and have a specific remit within their funding to work with the Somali, Congolese, Vietnamese, Chinese and Albanian communities..

9.4. MARAC is a monthly meeting held for all partner agencies to managed high risk/repeat victims cases of DV/SV. This is chaired by the DI in charge of the CSU . The MARAC Co-ordinator is a police constable who is on attachment to the MARAC. The MARAC is attended by: Adult Safeguarding, Children’s Services, Social Services, Housing Advisory Services, Ascham Homes( ALMO), Educational Psychology, Drugs and Alcohol Services, Health Visitors, PCT Children’s Safeguarding, midwifery, Ashiana, Victim Support (IDVA), Crisis Intervention Officer, Haven Survivors’ Network, Report-It, Kiran, Qalb Counselling, Turning Point Drugs and Alcohol Support Services, London Probation IDAP Women’s Safety Officer, Domestic Violence Intervention Project Women’s Safety Officer and the DV/SV Co-ordinator.

9.5. There are a many specialist services supported by WF SafetyNet. Victim Support offer a community based IDVA service. They offer support to victims of intimate partner abuse and familial abuse, including male victims and LGBT victims. In addition to offering 1:1 practical and emotional support, they also offer a weekly domestic abuse drop in surgery and a weekly women’s support group. The majority of referrals to Victim Support come from the police.The Haven- Survivor’s Network offer counseling on all levels to WF victims of SV, using the survival model, and also take referrals from other Boroughs. The Kiran Project provides counseling and advice on all issues to Asian women and children in relation to DV/SV. Qalb Counselling is a counselling and advisory service aimed at the Asian, African and African Caribbean communities re depression/DV related issues including substance abuse. The Domestic Violence Intervention Project works with perpetrators of domestic violence prior to contact with the criminal justice system to address and change their offending behaviour and also provides a safety service for their partners and children to ensure their safety. The London Probation IDAP Service which also has a women’s safety officer who is undergoing IDVA training. The Gender Equality Strategy for Waltham Forest is in addition to the current DV and SV Violence Strategy and Women’s Safety and Violence Against Women and Girls being a focus of the Gender Equality Strategy for Waltham Forest. The East London Out Project (ELOP) are counselling and support services and advocacy for LGBT people providing a service for LGBT victims of crime.

How does the (B)OCU and SCD2 work in partnership with voluntary and statutory sector agencies locally? What training is delivered in partnership with the community?

10.1. The WF MARAC has been in operation since January 2009. The MARAC Coordinator will ask for referrals via the secure e-mail system at least 7 days prior to the meeting and will circulate the referrals to partner agencies 5 working days prior to the meeting. Victims who have experienced two or more crimes in the past 12 months with violence or three of more without violence are referred to the MARAC. Referrals are also made for victims of HBV or on professional judgment of referring party. WF has a dedicated MARAC Coordinator posted to the CSU, who now is working with the DV Coordinator in developing systems and increasing case referral volume.

10.2. An Analyst for DV is not at present available within the Borough Intelligence Unit at WF Police. Some repeat victim data collection has been conducted within the CSU, however the accuracy when compared with the current differences between definitions of repeat victims within MARAC and police data, has at the moment not given the best return of data. However, this is a working progress and should be addressed within the next financial year. Analysis of arrested perpetrators has enabled identified an Eastern European cohort of offenders. The introduction of a specifically targeted campaign and negotiation to provide Polish support work around DV/ SV and drugs/ alcohol issues.

10.3. CAADA has completed stage one and two of the MARAC implementation process, reviewing WF MARAC as part of the process. WF was seen as an up and coming MARAC with excellent working partnerships and a structured system in delivering meetings. Observations were given around case load, action management and partner agencies referral/input. These were welcomed and are now being addressed with the assistance of all parties including the new DV/SV Coordinator. A MARAC Focus Morning is to be held and a Steering Group introduced to support the development of the MARAC and further CAADA training for partners has been funded to refresh the MARAC referral process and Risk Assessment and NI 32 training is also planned.

10.4. The DV/SV Board meet bi-monthly and brings together all partner agencies including the CPS and HM Courts Service, and work together to provide a strategic framework and action plan for the prevention of domestic abuse, the provision of borough wide protection, justice and support. They monitor and evaluate the implementation of the WF Domestic Violence/Sexual Violence Strategy and establish standards of best practice within agencies. The DV/SV Board is chaired by Ashiana’s Director and Michael Verrier of Freedom Training. DI CSU and DI SCD2 attend DV/SV forums and provide input on targets,case progression, victim referral and support.

10.5. WF Local Authority has just secured a budget to provide training from CAADA in all MARAC areas, including risk management for both police and partners. In addition the Crisis Intervention Officer role will be providing training around support available in WF for DV/SV victims to new officers on attachment to the CSU.

10.6. Whitechapel is the local Haven site for the WF SCD2 team. The QSR system has been used to record the resolution between the Haven and MPS. Victims of sexual violence can self refer to The Haven and discuss options in relation to reporting with a police officer at a weekly clinic. The SCD2 team provides SOIT cover for the clinic in January and June each year. Where a victim wishes to remain anonymous, and forensic samples are passed to police for intelligence purposes, the results are communicated through Haven staff, allowing an informed decision to be made on whether to pursue an allegation. The ability to self refer and maintain anonymity is recognized and supported by SCD2 as a way of increasing the number of reported rape allegations that would otherwise not be recorded.

10.7. SCD2 has forged links with victim support locally. There is currently 1 IDVA on the Borough working for VSS. VSS recently made an application to GOL for funding two ISVAs for North East London. This was supported by the SCD2 DI, but the bid was unsuccessful. There is close liaison between SCD5 and SCD2 where children are involved, particularly in relation to working with Social Services. In cases of DV sexual violence, appropriate cases are referred to the MARAC through the CSU. Additional support and counseling services in relation to rape and sexual violence are provided for residents of WF through “The Haven-the Survivors’ Network” and Ashiana, Stay Safe, Disability Action WF. Further support is also available through national networks and a support for male victims leaflet has been developed for use.

10.8. WF Borough is involved in the planning and implementation of the East London Rape Crisis Centre, funded by the Mayor’s office, though this is in the early stages of planning and goes live in November 2010. The service provision will focus on long-term counseling for both women and men which will be provided in two hubs in the East London Quadrant.

10.9. The SCD2 DI meets with the Borough Crown Prosecutor and lead Rape lawyer on a monthly basis, working to a fixed agenda reviewing charged cases, potential cases and reviewing completed prosecutions to identify and pass on lessons to be learnt.

B4. Work with Victims and Communities

How do the (B)OCU and SCD2 monitor service user satisfaction and /or seek feedback from victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and then integrate any improvements into policy and practice?

11.1. Partner agencies do collect data to assist with customer satisfaction who often offer the requisite ongoing support to victims outside of the Police and prosecution process. This includes Victim Support, and the IDVA’s. Partner agencies do feed back to the CSU Detective Inspector any concerns and will advice on formal complaints procedures and civil remedies. The introduction of police satisfaction questions to these surveys is subject to discussion and it is also hoped that it will form part of the call back victim support questionnaire which has been built into the Crisis Intervention Officer role.

11.2. Direct contact by victims or third party referrals are received by the DI in charge of the CSU. It is responded to formally in writing and addressed appropriately. The victim will be invited in to discuss what options are available for them in relation to the issue they highlight. Resolutions are sought and customer satisfaction is the primary aim in all of these matters. It is hoped that through the services of Stay Safe the use of questionnaires can be extended.

11.3. Victims of rape are given a satisfaction questionnaire as part of the SOIT officer exit strategy at the end of the investigation. The issue of these is monitored through the use of CRIS flags and spreadsheet maintained by the SCD2 DI. The questionnaires are left with the victims to be completed and returned anonymously in a pre-paid envelope to the Strategic Research Unit. The aim of the questionnaire is to measure the perception of the victim on how they have been kept informed and dealt with throughout the criminal justice process by Police, Havens and Courts. Generic organisational feedback is then fed back to SCD2 and passed on to clusters at monthly management meetings. Questionnaires are not posted to victims where they cannot be given by hand, victims who are under 16, have disabilities that will affect their understanding of the process, or do not read / understand English. Further work is being carried out to enable feedback to be sought in different languages.

11.4. During the reporting period victim satisfaction questionnaires were available to victims of rape over 16 years as part of the SOIT exit strategy. The use of the forms is monitored through CRIS flagging and on a spreadsheet. A new system has now been put in place which includes availability to child victims through parents/ guardians and relates to SCD2 investigations at the point of charging decision/end of the investigation. The questionnaires are handed to victims and left with them to complete and return anonymously in a pre paid envelope. The aim is to measure the perception of the victim on how they have been kept informed and dealt with throughout by all involved.

11.5. The Haven has their own user feedback questionnaires. . A quality of service report process exists between the Havens and MPS. This is designed to provide the best possible service for those who have been sexually assaulted and is used to pass on comments on any quality of service issues between the organisations.

How does the (B)OCU and SCD2 ensure compliance with the Victims Code of Practice and that victims are provided with regular updates on cases and informed quickly of any changes or decisions (particularly those which may impact on their safety eg release on bail)?

12.1. DV VCOP compliance is the responsibility of each investigating officer. This is regularly reviewed during supervision. The first victim contact is made within 24 hours of the report and then throughout the investigation especially around significant events such as arrest/charge/bail.

12.2. In cases where the suspect has been arrested and there is consideration for bail the OIC must complete a further risk assessment around the victim’s safety before bail is considered by the Custody Officer. A remand report will be completed to incorporate a fuller picture of contentions to bail. This will involve a further consultation with the victim to assist the Custody Sergeant to decide if bail is appropriate, or the level of conditions ensure victim safety.

12.3. Seven day and ongoing supervision by CSU Detective Sergeants will ensure that there has been regular contact between the investigating officer and the victim. The Crime Management Unit will also monitor VCOP compliance.

12.4. The Performance Review Unit run enquiries on the custody system and CRIS against the VCOP figures to ensure that victims of DV have been informed of the arrest/bail/charge of the suspect. All figures around VCOP are published/ discussed at Performance Management Meetings on a monthly basis.

12.5. VCOP compliance around DV are not specifically collated by the (B)OCU. These are the February 2010 figures for all reported crime on the borough:

• VSS Referral Code 81%.
• Victim Update 98%.
• Arrest of suspect 81%.
• Suspect Released 82%.
• Suspect charged 74%.
• Non-Court disposal 90%.

12.6. WF also has their own Crisis Intervention Officer who works within the WF CSU and will make immediate contact on referral and ensure that any support agencies working with the victim are made aware of case developments in a timely fashion..

12.7. In cases of sexual violence investigated by SCD2, a SOIT officer is deployed to each victim and is responsible for regular updates. These are recorded in the SOIT log and on the DETS pages of the CRIS. The relevant flag is entered on the VCOP page. VCOP performance is monitored by the CMU through flag searches. Identified VCOP failures are then sent to the SCD2 DI at the end of the week for follow up. The SOIT coordinator DS has been tasked with monitoring performance and compliance in the coming year. Where a SOIT officer is not available and an important update is required, such as a suspect being bailed, the update will be given by the OIC or a supervisor.

How do the (B)OCU and SCD2 build trust and confidence with hard to reach communities, particularly around sensitive cultural issues such as forced marriage and ‘honour’ based violence?

13.1. Both Ashiana and The Kiran Project assist with support pathways offering all lines of support for HBV and associated crimes. Also, WF Prevent team has recently provided a presentation to a group of Asian Women to broaden communities understanding of procedures taken by police when arresting suspects for terrorism offences. DI CSU also attends meetings with support agencies to discuss DV matters and offer a question and answer forum.

13.2. WF has gained access into minority groups such as the Polish Community. A recent study undertaken by WF Police and Local Authority identified that the Polish community have a high level of DV both in relation to victims and suspects. WF Local Authority is currently attempting to recruit an outreach worker to assist with substance and alcohol abuse.

13.3. LGBT Liaison Officers at WF are a team of eight front line police officers and two secondary investigation police officers posted within the CSU. These officers attend community events throughout the year as well as assist in the investigation of DV and Hate Crime. Thus both immediate and protracted response to the LGBT community are available. The LGBT LOs work closely with the Waltham Forest Hate Crime Co-ordinator and DV/SV Co-ordinator who has previously worked extensively on policing of PSEs, support of LGBT victims/witnesses , same sex , homophobic and transphobic domestic violence.

13.4. In this reporting period there have been 22 incidents that have been flagged as Honour Based Violence or Forced Marriage. These incidents are automatic referrals to MARAC where the numerous partner agencies, primarily Ashiana and The Kiran Project, work together to reduce the risk to the victims and their families. Safer Neighbourhoods Teams in both primary and secondary schools deliver presentations on ‘every child matters’ and safety within families.

13.5. WF has 15 third party reporting sites within the borough. This is to enable the community to report any type of hate crime, which may well include HBV and other DV/SV linked matters. These have been established for a number of years and are coordinated by Hate Crime Coordinator Dianne Andrews of WF Local Authority.

13.6. In addition to the aftercare and counseling services provided by the Haven at Whitechapel, there are local services that police liaise closely with, Ashiana, VSS and Waltham Forest Haven who undertake work and provide links to otherwise hard to reach communities. CSU and SCD2 also utilize links with other London based organisations such as the Poppy Project, IKWRO, Southall Black Sisters, Galop, ELOP, Respect and Broken Rainbow to support victims where appropriate.

13.7. White Ribbon Day and World Cup DV awareness campaigns are being organised as community events and will include all communities and the private business sector in the borough as well as ongoing awareness raising by deployment of the Community Safety Mobile Vehicle on a regular basis and at other community events throughout the year. These have will continue to engage with the community and ensure that we listen and respond to their needs.

B5. Organisational Improvement

Where there have been recommendations from Homicide reviews or serious case reviews what are they and how have they been implemented?

14.1. During the reporting period there have been no homicides or serious case reviews for WF.

What have been the benefits and challenges of implementing SCD2 locally?

15.1. When Sapphire teams were based on Borough, SOIT officers were a deployable resource that could be used to fulfil local Aid requirements. The move to SCD has removed this abstraction and allows the focus to remain fully on SOIT officer duties.

15.2. Consistency in the quality of supervision has improved since the implementation of SCD2. All permanent staff went through an application process and all Detective Inspectors were interviewed to ensure suitability for the role. All supervisors are therefore interested and committed to the policing of sexual offences rather than performing the role on a rotation or development basis as was sometimes the case previously.

15.3. The greatest challenge for the SCD2 team has been staffing. None of the 8 Detective posts were filled on implementation, so there has been a heavy reliance on TP supplying officers on attachment. Officers on attachment did not go through a selection process and the majority had not investigated sexual offences previously. This has been coupled with a highest sickness rate of all the SCD2 clusters, the majority being with SOIT officers and related to maternity or long standing health issues.

How have close working practices been maintained between SCD2 and the (B)OCU?

16.1. WF SCD2 is based within Barkingside Police Station. Although not within Waltham Forest Borough, the location is close enough to allow officers to service both Boroughs.

16.2. On the implementation of SCD2 liaison took place between managers from the respective units. This has continued, allowing mutual assistance being provided where necessary. This has been important whereby initial allegations being made require discussion as to which unit takes primacy - those good relationships ensure victim service is maintained, irrespective of who conducts the initial service ensuring victims needs are met. A mutual desire to succeed has promoted flexibility across portfolios.

16.3. There is close cooperation at DI level between SCD2 and the WF BOCU, CID and Intelligence functions. The DV /SV Project Board is attended by the DIs from each portfolio, enhancing information sharing and relationships.

Where there have been cases of ‘honour’ based violence has the HBV Action Plan proved fit for purpose? If not how could it be improved?

17.1. There were 15 reports of honour based violence and 9 forced marriage reported within WF borough during this period. Not all HBV matters are classified as crimes; some are potentially crimes and are seen as ‘specified investigations’ where risk must be managed at a high level. WF does have many incidents reported relating to HBV or have characteristics of honour/forced marriage, even where no crime has been identified. Therefore, an allocated HBV DS within the CSU was identified to review all actions within these crimes and adherence to the HBV protocols. Liaison is continuous with the HBV SPOC at the CSU service Delivery team at TPHQ. Also, the use of the International Assistance unit is sought where victims have been taken overseas to be married or because ‘honour’ has been an issue within the UK. Both Ashiana and Kiran are contacted in every case to provide support for both the victim and police investigation, often advising on cultural issues and possible dangers to the victim where potential police action requires a delay due to risk factors.

17.2. Reports of HBV are referred to the MARAC where all partner agencies action plan support to reduce the risk to the victims. Victims of HBV are also referred to the IDVA service. In some cases there has been joint incremental action to safeguard the victim such as emergency accommodation. The multi agency approach has assisted and expedited the process for permanent re-housing outside the area of risk. HBV protocol dictates actions such as providing comprehensive records of identification, taking the victim’s photograph, fingerprints, DNA, and recording passport details are considered and requested in all HBV cases. All the possible locations the victim may have access to are recorded.

What have been the successes/areas for improvement for PPDs?

18.1. WF Public Protection Desk consists of a Detective Inspector, with a team of investigators and support staff to assist with all public protection issues. The PPD within WF is not linked to the CSU and is off site at present; however this may change in due course.The successes of the PPD are built on close MAPPA monitoring and attendance at the Safe Guarding Children Boards as well as close supervision of all Merlin reports and PAC referrals in relation to every child matters.

What single improvement do the BOCU think the MPS could make which would greatly improve the response to a) domestic and b) sexual violence locally?

19.1. Domestic Violence. The target figures set for each CSU within the met are driven at arrest rates and sanction detection rates. Although there are overall measures for customer satisfaction, this does not reflect performance within the CSU. Therefore, a true measure of success within the CSU remit would be to focus more on victim support and satisfaction and/or partnership work than being figure driven, where some of the figures cannot be controlled by police decision, but are often made by CPS lawyers, viz decision to not charge.

19.2. Sexual Violence. The key to effective investigation of sexual offences is having sufficient staff to deliver the standard of service and investigation laid out in the Serious Sexual Offences SOP. Staff increases to match the greater than anticipated workloads of SCD2 have been agreed by the MPS, but work continues in relation to recruitment and identifying the most suitable deployment. The SCD2 cluster covering WF has been particularly badly affected by a lack of permanent detective staff and SOIT officer sickness. Hastening the process of recruitment of suitable staff and defining the investigative remit in line with the original Memorandum of Understanding shall improve response to sexual assault.

What do you think the MPA Domestic and Sexual Violence Board and its members could do to help or support SCD2 / the (B)OCU in dealing with domestic and/or sexual violence?

20.1. Domestic Violence: Support the re evaluation of targets set to monitor arrests and sanction detections to give primacy to targets to monitor customer support and satisfaction. Although ‘arrest rates’ within DV should be monitored to ensure compliance with the DV SOP, sanction detections as aforementioned are often not controlled by BOCUs and do not provide a true of any CSU’s success.

20.2. Sexual Violence: One of the principles of investigating serious sexual offences is that the victim’s wishes on whether a case proceeds to trial should only be overridden where a prosecution is in the public interest. This principle leads to investigations that are evidentially sound, but to comply with the wishes of the victim, do not proceed. These are often recorded as unsolved, giving a distorted picture of rape investigation in published sanctioned detection and conviction rates.

D1. Equality and Diversity Statement.

21.1 WF police and partners holds as paramount the knowledge that DV/SV occurs within all facets of its community, is never acceptable and that the ‘policing of ‘ and support services available are accessible to all. Thus there is an absolute requirement to provide support pathways for all victims of DV/SV and to ensure that their safety is upheld and continuing support is offered.

21.2. WF LGBT Liaison Officers continue to build relationships with the LGBT community and combat the under reporting of homophobic crimes due to lack of confidence in the Criminal Justice System. Operation Idaho is a yearly event to address crimes reported of a homophobic/Hate nature. The LGBT community are subject to both DV/SV issues, the LGBT LO s continue to encourage identification of DV within the LGBT community and the VSS offer the support pathway for this. In addition to this, which can be accessed from Broken Rainbow, work is underway to ensure LGBT advice at the MARAC. As part of LB Waltham Forest’s International Day of Action Against Homophobia is being held and awareness raising around same sex and homophobic/transphobic domestic/ sexual violence will be part of this event.

21.3. The Stay Safe project will begin to address/advise on the support required for victims with disabilities. WF has had a low level of reports, this being identified by a statistical review undertaken by the DI CSU. This is believed to be due to incorrect or alternative flagging of CRISs. This was highlighted to the CSU Service Delivery Team, who have reviewed the current working practises. This will be a matter to be addressed in this financial year. WF’s response to this is to enhance the action taken and knowledge of disability crime by embarking on the Stay Safe Project.

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