Report on the MPS findings of the multi-agency domestic violence murder reviews in London

Report: 15
Date: 11 December 2003
By: Clerk

Summary

The MPS has published findings from the Multi-agency Domestic Violence Murder Reviews in London (Appendix 1). The report gives recommendations to a number of agencies including the police (section 7.10).

The recommendations include the use of a two-pronged approach of murder review and a risk assessment model. The MPS risk assessment model has been piloted and evaluated and is now being piloted in West Yorkshire to assess its transferability.

The need for partnership working is emphasised throughout the report.

A. Recommendations

That

1. the report be noted; and
2. an update on the implementation of the recommendations to date be requested.

B. Supporting information

1. The Multi-agency Domestic Violence Murder Reviews in London report is based on 30 out of the 56 murders committed between 01/01/2001 and 06/04/2002 and should therefore be treated as emerging findings. However further extensive research was undertaken simultaneously by the author of the report and a further 400 domestic violence cases were also analysed, particularly with regards to risk factors and risk assessment.

2. Six high risk factors were identified in the report:

• Separation (child contact)
• Pregnancy
• Escalation
• Cultural issues and sensitivity
• Stalking
• Sexual assault

3. The report highlights the need for multi-agency and national co-operation. It states that risk assessment and risk management is vital and a corporate risk assessment tool/model is recommended across the MPS and partner agencies. This approach should be used across Police Services in the UK to eliminate postcode policing. The report promotes the use of timely multi-agency murder reviews and recommends that they be put on a national footing. Mention is also made of the need to undertake international police checks on adults from abroad when there are child protection issues and that if high- risk offenders move geographical areas then the relevant Police Domestic Violence Unit should be informed.

C. Equality and diversity implications

Specific mention is made in the report of the need to improve the support available for communities where there are language barriers and the need for officers to have access to Language Line. The report states there is a need for cultural awareness and sensitivity when dealing with ethnic minority victims and that ‘Police should be culturally refined when dealing with victims but racially and ethnically blind when dealing with perpetrators’.

D. Financial implications

None arising from this report.

E. Background papers

• MPS Findings from the Multi-agency Domestic Violence Murder Reviews in London

F. Contact details

Report author: Jane Owen, MPA.

For more information contact:

MPA general: 020 7202 0202
Media enquiries: 020 7202 0217/18

Appendix 1

Appendix 1 is only available in hard copy from the MPA.

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