Islington report

Report: 3
Report for the Domestic and Sexual Violence Board
Date: 29 September 2010

Part A: is available as a PDF

B1: Report to MPA Domestic and Sexual Violence Board

1.1 Islington Borough reflects the current MPS delivery model in relation to the investigation of domestic and sexual violence.

1.2 The co-locating of SCD2 and the Community Safety Unit (CSU) at Islington Police Station delivers a harmonized response to all serious sexual assaults and domestic violence. Relationships between staff within SCD2 and the CSU are excellent and provide reliable platform to make quick, effective decisions about case ownership and victim care.

1.3 In November 2009 a ‘Special Investigation Unit’ (SIU) was formed to deliver a dedicated response to investigations of a sexual nature that did not meet the criteria for SCD2 referral. The SIU sits within the Islington Police Crime Wing and is managed by the Detective Chief Inspector owning the community safety portfolio. The unit also has the capacity to respond effectively to incidents of high risk missing persons and serious incidents taking place with the environs of HMP’s Pentonville and Holloway. The unit was described as a ‘beacon of excellence’ by a review team directed by Commander TPHQ in July.

1.4 The Borough’s Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, Safer Islington Partnership and Islington Council provide and coordinate a range of domestic and sexual violence support services. Islington Police have strong representation in relation to the delivery of all of these services through membership and presence at the various project meetings. Police resources have been utilised in support of many of these projects that included ‘Young People using violence in Personal Relationships’ (through the delivery of analytical products, advice to the council and a presence at promotional events such as ‘Game Over Islington United Against Domestic Violence’ a youth football tournament).

1.5 The Islington Victims of Violence Project looks a ways of increasing engagement with all victims of violence to improve reporting and victim support. Islington Police are currently piloting an initiative with Whittington Hospital that involves the deployment of an officer in the A&E department for a period of four weeks at times when, following research, the presentation of assault casualties is most prominent. We anticipate that this will encourage reporting by cultivating relationships with victims in the immediate aftermath of the incident and the potential to exploit best evidence opportunity resulting in early intervention.

1.6 Islington’s Gang and Youth Violence Prevention Panel, known as The Bronze Group formed in July 2008 with the overall aim of preventing harm to young people. It is a multi agency operational meeting, which aims to prevent and reduce young people’s involvement in gang activity, group offending and violent crime. It aims to do this through the sharing of information and the use of resources to work with individuals and groups.

1.7 Together, representatives identify young people at the highest risk of perpetrating or being a victim of crime. For each of these people a multi-agency action plan is developed to reduce their risk level. The plan co-ordinates actions for each case and can range through enforcement, intervention and support with onward referrals as relevant.

1.8 The action plans help to ensure the most effective co-ordination of existing resources within member services, and set out a methodology for the management of risk. The group look at those young people up to the age of 24, who are at the highest risk of involvement in violence, as well as identifying the needs of siblings and parents/carers, as well as the risks for partners and other females linked to the young person. Where support needs are identified for the young person or their wider family, for example with a domestic violence issue, substance misuse, housing, training and education etc, onward referrals are co-ordinated through the Bronze Group action plan, ensuring that services work together effectively.

1.9 The Bronze Group has had a positive impact on information-sharing and joint working between agencies. Involved agencies have been able to come together for a common purpose, to prevent harm to young people and this has strengthened working relationships and improved trust between different services.

1.10 The target for 2009/10 domestic violence performances was to achieve a sanction detection rate of 46% and 70% of cases to result in an arrest. The Islington Community Safety Unit achieved both of these targets. The target for 2010/11 is 47% sanctioned detections and 77% arrests. Islington Borough is currently exceeding these targets with 55.5% for sanction detections and 84.5% for arrests. The CSU have had similar success in relation to the detection of Homophobic and Racial / Religious crime.

B2: Policy compliance and quality assurance

How does the BOCU 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?

Risk assessment

2.1 The first risk assessment takes place following the initial call to Police via the 999 systems. The response to the call is graded and this grade is quality assured by METCALL and Integrated Borough Operations Supervisor (IBOS). In this period there were 4368 calls shown as Type ‘29’ (Domestic Incident) of which 2450 were ‘I’ (Immediate response) grades. Our average response time in relation to the ‘I’ grade calls was 9.3375 minutes. The average response time for other ‘I’ grade calls was 8.12 minutes. So the differential between all calls and DV was 81 seconds. Whilst an explanation for these slightly slower response times remains indefinable, the differential is considered to be within an acceptable tolerance.

2.2 There were 5,368 T29 (Domestic) calls in the period in question. Of which 1331 (Not Crimed) didn't end up as a CRIS report, these would include disputes between Parents and their children (PACs) and also duplicates and errors. So in real terms that equates to a 75% CRIS conversion (25% is 1342 calls).

2.3 On arrival the initial investigating officer will risk assess the situation and in the case of DV is guided through this process by the book 124d which clearly outlines the minimum levels of risk assessment using the ‘SPECSS+’ model. The officer is then encouraged to use the ‘RARA’ model (remove/avoid/reduce/accept the risk) to manage the risks identified. Due to the MPS positive action policy this will, in the vast majority of cases, involve the arrest and removal of the suspect from the scene. Information gleaned at the time of reporting is transferred onto a CRIS report at the earliest opportunity and is supervised by the Duty Sergeant. The Crime Management Unit and a Detective Sergeant on the CSU provide an additional review of the case at a later stage. The 124d will include detailed notes from the officer, a witness statement from the complainant and authority to obtain any medical evidence required for a prosecution. These details are obtained at the time of reporting to enable the CSU to investigate the matter expeditiously enabling a prompt charge, remand and court appearance if appropriate. Where an immediate charge is not an option strict bail conditions will be imposed to ensure the safety of the victim and any children. Part of the investigation will involve taking first steps of forensic – EEK, photographs of victim and injuries.

2.4 The investigation is allocated to a police officer on the CSU, SCD2 or SIU. The officer will carry out detailed research for any previous incidents or intelligence of note to enable them to review and amend the current risk assessment. They will also review the risk management and if necessary put in additional measures & refer to our partner agencies. The original risk assessment grading will either be confirmed or amended.
A Detective Sergeant supervises all investigations every seven days. 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.

2.5 High-risk DV cases 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. In the period concerned there are 36 cases referred to the MARAC from police. Referral to MARAC will involve completion of risk assessment based on the CAADA DASH 2 model.
If children are within the relationship whether present or not initial reporting officers are required to complete a Merlin Pre Assessment Check (PAC) report. The Public protection desk supervises and undertakes a further risk assessment in relation to the children.

2.6 There is a daily risk management meeting chaired by the DCI, which is attended by the CSU Detective Inspector, and outstanding risk issues are fed back to the Daily Management Meeting, chaired by a member of SMT. Risks are often around outstanding suspects. Risks are reviewed over the last 24 hours and measures put in place to address this. Also response times are looked at for incidents and where there is a delayed response, there is an investigation by the relevant SMT portfolio to ensure clarity and correct response.

2.7 If there is a disclosure of rape or a serious sexual offence then the investigation is immediately referred to SCD2. SCD2 have 24/7 availability through local cluster teams or centrally through the SCD reserve desk. Following the initial report a trained SOIT officer will be assigned to the victim. The SOIT along with the Investigating Officer will carry out a detailed risk assessment. This will be documented within the SOIT log and the CRIS report. SCD2 Intel Unit conducts daily reviews for all offences reported to Police over the previous 24 hours. A risk matrix is applied and all high-risk cases are discussed at SCD2 Daily Management Meeting where risks are reviewed and actions raised. SCD2 DI will attend BOCU DMM in high-risk cases. Risk assessments are subject to constant review in line with SCD2 SOP. 10hour - DS, 7 days - DI, 28 days - DCI and every 28 days thereafter.

Training

2.8 Both BOCU & SCD2 use MPS Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) as a mandate for the investigation of Serious Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence. Risk assessments and use of risk management tools are a critical part. The SOP’s are published on the MPS corporate intranet system and available for the reference of all staff. These are detailed documents and staff have a good working knowledge delivered through a variety of training opportunities. Specific Domestic & Sexual Violence investigation training is delivered to all student constables during their Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (IPLDP). Officers receive additional domestic violence training delivered by the (B) OCU Training Unit and CSU at Late Turn response team briefings. The last round of CSU training for response team officers was in April 2010, each session lasting 30 minutes with input into completing risk assessments and guidance on minimum standards of evidence in the Book 124d. Training scheduled for delivery in 2010 /11 will build on the risk assessment/management training utilising the CAADA DASH model, which is also available now to all officers/staff via the online NCALT training packages.

2.9 Detectives working on the CSU are all trained to investigate hate crime and sexual offences. This is incorporated in the Crime Academy syllabus for detective training, and in relation to DV, an additional specific one and five-day courses are mandatory for members of the CSU’s. Practical advice is available to all officers via the CSU Service Delivery Team and SCD2 Sapphire Intranet sites. All SCD2 officers are required to attend a bespoke one-week training course, which covers all aspects of the investigation of rape and serious sexual violence. This also incorporates training in relation to risk assessments. At this time 72% of SCD2 officers at Islington have undertaken this training with the remaining officers all having dates to attend. By the end of January 2011 100% will be trained.

2.10 In addition SCD2 deliver SOIT training courses and every SCD2 officer attends an SCD2 foundation course where bespoke training in relation to Risk assessment and Sexual Violence is provided.

2.11 SCD2 have an out of hours ‘on-call team consisting of 1 X DS 2 DC’s and 5 X SOIT officers who are available pan London via the SCD2 reserve desk to respond to reports of serious sexual offences and also to offer advice and support to BOCU officers.

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 systems e.g. CRIS, MERLIN and CRIMINT?

2.12 The 124D ‘Domestic Violence Investigation/Arrest Form’ is currently being used in 97% of all DV reports on Islington Borough. This position has gradually improved from 80% compliance 12 months ago following a programme of training delivered to response teams by the CSU. This training cycle is repeated every 3 months and consists of a 20-minute presentation on the completion of form 124D. Performance in relation to Form 124D compliance and standards of completion are discussed during the Daily Management Meetings. TPHQ produce monthly performance data in relation the completion of 124D’s, this is taken from the DV Hate Crime CRIS page, where there is a box to indicate the completion of form 124D. Islington Borough is currently completing this box on 75% of instances. This represents an improvement from 40% in April this year and follows the response team training. In many cases it was found that the form had been completed but the relevant CRIS filed had not been noted.

2.13 The 124d is deposited with the CSU office, a unique reference number is allocated and a supervisor quality assures the form and reviews the risk assessment. The supervisor will also evaluate the necessity for a CRIS, CRIMINT or MERLIN report and take steps to generate these documents if they are absent. The case is then allocated for investigation by the CSU.

2.14 The requirement to provide a Merlin and CRIS reference number in order to close a CAD generated domestic incident where children are present ensures that these documents are generated in those cases.

How does SCD2 / the BOCU respond to cases of sexual and or domestic violence in which there are police officers or staff involved, or counter allegations, multiple victims or multiple perpetrators? How many of these are there?

Police Officer suspect/victim

2.15 In this reporting period there have been no reports involving members of MPS employees as the victims or perpetrators of DV. The Borough and SCD2 respond to this category of offence in line with corporate SOP in relation to Domestic and Sexual Violence.

2.16 Additional support for MPS employees who are victims of Domestic Violence are well established and trigger Occupational Health, Federation/Union and Welfare support services. The Evolve service is also well promoted to all staff within the BOCU through posters and presentations to CSU staff.

2.17 DV perpetrated by police employees whilst on duty is investigated by the Professional Standards invariably involving a referral from the CSU. Any off duty offences are investigated by the CSU who liaise with the DPS in relation to the investigation and court appearances or disposal. The DPS then deal with any misconduct issues arising out of the case.

2.18 DV incidents that involve MPS staff as suspects are immediately referred to Borough DPS, all reports restricted to minimise unauthorised access. Any decision regarding suspension or restriction of duty is made by the Commander DPS and implemented by the OCU Commander.

Counter allegations

2.18 Frequently DV incidents involve counter allegations between parties with no independent corroborative evidence. Officers are trained in dealing with such situations. The IBO is available to conduct research into establish the existence of any history of violence between the two parties to enable an accurate and informed assessment of the situation and any risk.
The legal issues associated with arresting both parties mean that this course of action is generally discouraged. There are often childcare and protection issues associate with the removal of both parents. Associated training is continually delivered to front line officers at briefings.

Multiple victim/perpetrator offences.

2.19 During this reporting period there have been 9 cases involving multiple victims. These have typically involve harassment or threats of assault against family members. There have been no incidents recorded of ‘gang assault’ with a domestic or sexual profile. For cases when a victim has been subjected to an attack by multiple perpetrators a Family Liaison Officer Service is offered. SCD2 and the CSU would work closely together and pool resources to deal with this kind of incident. Multiple victims of sexual offences, where there is one perpetrator and a number of victims (linked series) are managed by SCD2 intelligence and a review conducted by the SCD2 DCI and DI responsible for the investigation of each of the different offences. Overseen and supervised by the regional DCI.

2.20 Honour Based Violence (HBV), which can also involve multiple victims and perpetrators, is dealt with by the CSU in accordance with guidelines published by TPHQ. These offences are allocated to experienced investigators who have been trained in dealing with HBV. All cases of HBV are brought to the MARAC for discussion and risk assessment. See also the work of the Bronze Group described above.

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

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

3.1 The Domestic Violence Partnership Board (DVPB) is part of the Islington CDRP portfolio and commissions partnership domestic and sexual violence work. Domestic violence and sexual violence are both included in the Borough Strategic Assessment. Sexual offences (particularly rape) are identified as a priority for the coming year (2011). The following is a description of the partnerships currently in place to tackle domestic and sexual violence on Islington Borough.

DVPT (Domestic Violence Partnership Team).

3.2 The group have responsibility for, and lead on, the implementation of, Islington’s Domestic Violence Strategy. The meeting is chaired by the Director of Corporate Resources. The group membership includes senior managers from across the partnership that is the domestic violence leads for their organisations. This includes Police, Housing, Children’s Services, DAAT, Adult Safeguarding, PCT, the Whittington Hospital and the chairs and vice chairs of the DVPT subgroups. The group meets on a quarterly basis to review progress of subgroups within the portfolio.

DVPT Subgroups-
These groups have responsibility for implementing specific areas of the Domestic Violence Strategy work plans:

Children and Young People
Young People Using Violence in Personal Relationships
Equalities
Criminal and Legal Justice
Early Intervention and Prevention

Other DV Meetings
These meetings have responsibility for developing specific project areas

MARAC
MARAC Steering Group
DV Court Group (shared with LB Camden)
DV and Substance Misuse Working Group
Forced Marriage and FGM Working Group (subgroup of ISCB)
Domestic Violence Network – (quarterly themed seminar which is open to all practitioners including those working outside Islington)

Funding
3.3 Islington Borough Council has invested a total of £829,000 to address domestic and sexual violence. This is broken down as follows

£120,000 of council, PCT and LAA money is used to fund three DV co-ordination, project officer posts in LA and Health
EVOLVE – (Solace Women’s Aid) IDVA and ISVA service (5 FT and 1 PT male IDVA/ISVA) - £299,000
BME Outreach Project –(IMECE and LAWA) £70,000
Children Art Therapy Project – (Solace Women’s Aid) £45,000
DV Training - £10,000
Homesafe Project – DV awareness in school project (Cambridge Education) £35,000
Victims of Violence Project – (Whittington Hospital) £70,000
DV and London Mainstreaming Model Court Officer (joint funded by Camden and Islington). £20,000 - LBI contribution.
CASA Family Project - £150,000 Substance Misuse project with a focus on DV
Nia Project worker for young girls – £10,000

Supporting People funded projects
Floating Support £90,000
SWA Refuge £259,802
LAWA Refuge £80,713

Childrens Service £106,198

Police £10,000 to fund DVIP young peoples work

Housing Aid Centre / Home shelter scheme £101,598

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

How do the BOCU and SCD2 work in partnership with voluntary and statutory sector agencies locally? What training is delivered in partnership with the community?

Are there any police or partnership initiatives to tackle Violence against Women? E.g. looking at trafficking and or prostitution, sexual exploitation of girls in gangs, forced marriage etc

3.4 Partnership Working: key projects/initiatives

SIP Domestic Violence Training programme – Islington Council Domestic Violence Team roll out a borough wide multi agency training programme, which has recently been broadened to Violence against Women and Girls Training. The programme covers the co-ordained response to domestic violence, forced marriage, honour based violence, female genital mutilation, safety planning and risk assessment, male victims, MARAC. The training is open to all partners. In addition, Islington Housing Aid Centre has commissioned bespoke training on domestic violence and Housing and SIP are commissioning training for Substance Misuse agencies on working with perpetrators.

3.5 Game Over Football Tournament – SIP provided funding in June to develop a media campaign marketed as “Game Over” aimed at raising awareness of domestic violence during the World Cup. In partnership with Arsenal Football Club, a series of publicity events were launched, bus stop hoardings displayed poster, press release and photos and culminated in a successful five a side football tournament, which saw 20 adult teams and 16 youth teams participate (check the numbers).

3.6 Violence Against Women’s and Girls Consultation (VAWG)- a series of VAWG consultation events are scheduled to take place in September, two consultations aimed at practitioners will focus on adults, other practitioner consultation events will focus specifically on children and young people. There will also be a series of service user consultations to ensure that the strategy and future service delivery is influenced by service users including substance misuse service users, street homeless, DV service users and BME groups.

3.7 VAWG Needs Assessment – SIP are currently undertaking a VAWG Needs Assessment drawing on the available data.

3.8 Victims of Violence Project – Project runs out of the A & E at Whittington and works with all victims of violence. Data has highlighted that most victims have DV presentations. There is an increase in DV reporting on Tuesday mornings between midnight and 2am.

3.9 The CDRP has a programme of training for all partners. Joint training between all agencies. In 2010 the programme includes partnership training on Honour Based Violence, SDVC, MARAC (CAADA Champions course) etc. CDRP provision is heavily focused on work around domestic violence and victim support.

3.10 MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference) meets monthly, is chaired by the CSU Detective Inspector and examines approximately 18 cases at each meeting. Records show the amount of referrals is increasing as the process has become more established. MARAC Steering group was formed with partners three months ago to encourage training, more referrals for high-risk cases and strategic direction.

3.11 The Islington Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) has been in operation since May 2007. The Detective Inspector for the CSU currently chairs it. Within 1st July 2009 to 30th June 2010 there has been 112 referrals to MARAC, 59 of those have been from the police. Of those cases discussed to date, 11 have been repeat referrals. There were 10 HBV reports and 4 Forced marriages

3.12 All victims referred to the MARAC are allocated an IDVA, either from Refuge for the most high-risk victims, or from Victim Support, who will make contact prior to the MARAC to offer support. . Victims who have experienced five or more crimes in the past 12 months are referred to the MARAC. MARAC members also make referrals for victims of HBV or on professional judgment. It is the responsibility of the investigating officer to identify repeat victims and make the referral to MARAC.

3.13 Analysis of DV cases is currently provided by one of the Analysts within the Borough Intelligence Unit, though this is not a dedicated function for any one analyst. The analytical product is produced monthly and examines repeat victimisation and cases referred to the MARAC. This has been shown to be good practice on other (B) OCU’s. The implementation of MARAC in Islington Borough is anticipated to be the subject of a CAADA Inspection later this year.

3.14 The Domestic Violence Strategy Group meet quarterly, and work together to provide a strategic framework for the prevention of domestic abuse, and the provision of borough wide protection, justice and support. They monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Islington Domestic Violence Strategy and Action Plan and establish standards of best practice within and between agencies.

3.15 The Council’s Head of Crime Reduction and Supporting People chair the Domestic Violence Strategy Group. The role and remit of the DV Strategy Group has recently been reviewed in response to, and in line with, the recently published ‘Violence Against Women and Girls’ strategy.

3.16 SCD2 at Islington continue to build on the previous good working relationships with Havens. There is a system of victim self-referral in place at all Haven Clinics. A victim of SV can report at the Haven without Police involvement. Forensic evidence is obtained and this is passed anonymously to the Police to enable them to identify the assailant. If a suspect is identified then the Haven contacts the victim so that they can, with the help and support of Haven staff make an informed decision as to whether they want to support the allegation. If they choose not to this information is held by Police and used for intelligence purposes only and risk assessed. Haven clinics will only take Police referrals/requests for examination from SOIT officers from SCD2. This is a long-standing protocol to ensure that the necessary investigation has been conducted to ascertain if a forensic examination is appropriate in the circumstances. This is especially important out of hours when doctors and staff are called into the unit. Each Haven holds a monthly clinic where SOIT officers attend in order to meet with and advise victims of Serious Sexual Violence.

3.17 SCD2 have also forged closer links with the VSS to provide better victim care. Additionally, SCD2 are in the process of identifying other partner agencies so that victims can be referred to them where appropriate. SCD2 also endeavour to work closely with Islington social services and have established protocols for the sharing of information especially in the case of child victims of sexual assault.

B4: Work with victims and communities

How does the BOCU 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?

4.1 Issued raised by victims and practitioners are raised and discussed during MARAC and other meetings including DV Court operational Group, Victims of Violence project, DV Criminal Justice and Legal working group, Learning Disabilities partnership Board are held during which issues around victim satisfaction, quality of investigations and victim updates are discussed and actions raised to address concerns. However, a central record of Organisational Learning points and improvements implemented as a result is not maintained.

4.2 In June 2010 the new CSU DI was made aware of a complaint made by Solace Women’s Aid in February 2010 through the IPCC, where an officer had fallen short of the standard expected in terms of quality of service provided. The CSU DI took responsibility of holding a joint meeting with all parties concerned, identified issues and concerns raised, shared experiences including how the victim must have felt and addressed concerns, providing a professional, thorough service and the officer apologised to all parties concerned. “Every Contact Matters” has been rolled out to all supervisors and promoted to partners.

The OIC or SOITs for SCD2 investigations are responsible for providing victims with regular updates and changes of circumstances in accordance with MPS DV policy and VCOP.

4.3 The Borough Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT) and Community Engagement Team are responsible for identifying and making initial contact with so-called ‘hard to reach’ communities and building trust with them. Routine patrolling and attendance at community events and meetings encourage contact with community. The distribution of DV support literature is also part of the SNTs’ role.

4.4 The CDRP have also introduced a wide range of initiatives to inform identified ‘hard to reach communities’ of the DV services available to them. These include stalls at community events, DVDs in several languages, DV outreach events, DV stakeholder conferences and publicity campaigns.

4.5 SCD2 has a system of victim feedback that is provided to victims at two stages. 1. After the suspect has been charged, 2. At the conclusion of the investigation whether positive or negative result at court.

4.6The SOIT officer will hand the feedback sheet to the victim personally and explain the process. The feedback is anonymous and is collated centrally before being fed back to the Directorate. This is intended to ensure that more feedback is received and that this feedback is honest. The issue of feedback forms is logged on the cris report, provided to victims, however it is recognised that not all will receive a response. Presently there is 85% compliance with issue of forms and 87% victims state they are happy with the service provided. The Haven also request feedback from their clients and this is information is shared with the Police.

How does the BOCU 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 e.g. release on bail)?

The Case Management Unit DI is responsible for VCOP compliance. Guidance and weekly performance reports are published. Reminders are also added direct to crime reports requesting remedial action. A system is also in place where police staff from the victims focus desk sends out information letters to victims on behalf of investigating officers. VCOP compliance forms part of the SCD2 DS and DI reviews.

4.7 Compliance to DV VCOP is the individual responsibility of each investigating officer within the CSU. This is a ‘Performance Objective’ for each officer and is regularly reviewed during individual supervision. The first victim contact is made or attempted within 24 hours of the report and then throughout the investigation especially around significant events such as arrest/charge/bail.

4.8 In cases where the perpetrator has been arrested and there is consideration for bail the OIC will have to complete a further risk assessment around the victim’s safety before the Custody Officer considers 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 restrictions/conditions that need be put in place to ensure victim safety. The Custody Officer will also conduct a risk assessment on the NSPIS custody record.

4.9 There is strict supervision of VCOP on three levels. The 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 has a Victim Focus Unit who deals specifically with VCOP compliance. They do not contact DV victims however they have quality assurance responsibilities to review the investigation and ensure that all contacts have been documented on the VCOP data page.

4.10 There may be areas for improvement in victim contact at the first opportunity, with detailed updates being provided. Continued risk assessments are carried out and the victim’s wishes may form part of the case disposal decision-making process. Recently CSU has been notified of all prison releases, increasing timely awareness for the victim and measures to be put in place if not already so regarding release of the perpetrator.

4.11 The SCD CMU monitors SCD2 VCOP performance. Supervision of VCOP compliance broadly mirrors the (B) OCU procedures. Due to the nature of the investigation for serious sexual assaults the levels of contact with the victim may be greater. Each case will have an individual investigating officer as well as a SOIT officer who will in most cases remain in place until the conclusion of the investigation. These contacts are documented with the SOIT and contacts logs as well as in the CRIS report. The SCD2 SMT closely manages VCOP and the crime management unit runs weekly checks to increase compliance. SCD2 teams are notified if failures are about to occur.

How do the BOCU and SCD2 build trust and confidence with hard to reach communities, particularly around sensitive cultural issues such as forced marriage and honour-based violence?

4.12 Islington CSU has actively engaged with communities through HAWALI project, BME Outreach project, the Steering groups also have equality and diversity sub groups.

4.13 The CSU are currently working with SO15 Counter Terrorism Command to engage with women within the Algerian community to highlight the services available to them in relation to domestic violence and in particular forced marriage and HBV. This will include a presentation by a member of the CSU to the community group and then follow up support from the CSU and SO15.

4.14 Islington Police have a pool of 13 volunteer staff who act as Liaison Officers for LGBT incidents and offences. These officers and staff attend community events throughout the year as well as assist in the investigation of DV and Hate Crime. They have cultivated close relationships with GALOP. Islington IDVA is unique in that it has a male IDVA who investigates same sex male DV.

4.15 LGBT Liaison officers attend pubs and clubs offering advice and support around DV and sexual offences. Honour Based Violence or Forced Marriage incidents are automatic referrals to MARAC where the numerous partner agencies work together to reduce the risk to the victims and their families and build confidence.

Schools Officers and Safer Neighbourhoods Teams also do work in both primary and secondary schools around safety within families.

4.16 Islington BOCU has been working towards third party reporting sites within the borough. Recently opened is the reporting Hub on Blackstock Road, to encourage and enable the Algerian community to report DV.

4.17 SCD2 have experienced investigators who have previously worked within DV and sexual violence roles and as such already have established working relationships with support agencies such as VSS, Asian Women’s Aid and Southall Black Sisters. In individual cases will involve the CCRU to engage with victims who have specialist 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?

5.1 In the reporting period there have been nil (0) DV flagged homicides on Islington Borough. There has been one (1) DV flagged homicide on the 2nd July 2010. CSU Detective Inspector is conducting a DV Homicide Review and report should be complete and submitted by October 2010.

How have close working practices been maintained between SCD2 and the BOCU?

5.2 Islington SCD2 is located within Islington Police Station. The close working proximity is beneficial for both units and has facilitated good working relationships between officers. SCD2 DI attends the DMM in high-risk cases. Officers meet frequently to discuss cases. SCD2 officers are offered assistance from partner agencies through the CSU.

5.3 In cases where the actual nature of the allegation is yet to be established BOCU and SCD2 / SOIT officers work together to ensure that the victim is given the support that they need and the correct investigating unit is identified. Both DI’s have a close working relationship, ensuring victim service is maintained.

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?

5.4 There were reports of 10 honour-based violence and 4 of forced marriage reported within Islington borough during this period. The reported crimes range from malicious communications, harassment and assault. Compliance has been with the MPS HBV Action Plan around standards of risk management and investigation with reference to CSU Standard Operating Procedures.

5.5 All reports of HBV are referred to the MARAC where all partner agencies discuss and try to reduce the risk to the victims. Victims of HBV are also referred to the EVOLVE service. In some cases there has had to be joint action in measures to safeguard the victim such as emergency accommodation. The multi agency approach has assisted and expedited the process for permanent re-housing outside of the area of risk.

5.6 All cases are investigated in line with corporate advice provided by the Violent Crime Directorate to ensure everything possible is done to ensure the victim’s safety. These include use of police protection, emergency accommodation and referrals to specialist HBV partners. Recommended procedures such as documenting identification, taking the victim’s photograph fingerprints, DNA, and recording passport details are considered and requested in all HBV cases.

What have been the successes and areas for improvement of Public Protection Desks?

5.7 Islington BOCU Public Protection Desk is now located (April 2010) in the same office as the Community Safety Unit. The CSU DI is responsible for the unit. The unit should comprise of 1X Detective Sergeant, 3 x PC’s and 2 x Police Staff researchers. The unit has encountered difficulties around staff resourcing in the period March 2010 to July 2010 due to long-term sickness. The unit is undergoing an audit and changes are being made to accommodate the correct resources to ensure smooth running of the unit and the right coordinated response to manage risk.

5.8 Any matters of high risk are brought to the DMM and highlighted. The DS ensures PAC’s have been completed in DV matters where children are involved ensuring the reference number has been added to the cris report.

5.9 The DI took over in April 2010 and has identified shortcomings with regards to resources, which affected performance and is in the process of addressing these issues. There is increased scrutiny, risk management and quality assurance for Police referrals to our partner agencies. Having a full time DS in the future will improve the working relationship with Children’s Services as the supervisor will be able to attend joint meetings frequently, to share information and put in place safety measures swiftly.

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

5.10 Domestic Violence. At the present time there are differing performance targets for the Police and the CPS. The number of sanction detections and public satisfaction judges the Police. The CPS is judged on the attrition and conviction rates for Domestic Violence and sexual assaults. Both are committed to dealing effectively with the perpetrators of domestic violence by bringing them to justice. These conflicts mean that there could be over emphasis on charging by the Police when other outcomes are more appropriate, against a reluctance to charge and not support victimless prosecutions by the CPS. This is generally managed by the DV Court Operational Group held quarterly with the CSU DI as Chair.

5.11 The performance targets of MPS and CPS for DV offences should be more cohesive. Ensure that with the inevitable reduced budgets and increased expectations, sufficient resources are in place in Community Safety Units so the expectations on Police officers and staff are realistic and do not put the public and Police at risk. Support officers and managers so that increased scrutiny does not mean increased bureaucracy taking officers away from front line and investigative roles.

5.12 SCD2 have realigned more closely with CPS. They are measured partly on detections, with relation to stranger rapes and ensure cases are not lost at court by making sure they get to court.

5.13 What do you think the MPA Domestic and Sexual Violence Board and its Members could do to help or support SCD2 / the BOCU in dealing with domestic and or sexual violence?
SCD2 is currently engaged in number of reviews to identify areas for improvement. These reviews will also focus upon remit and resource levels to ensure our staff are located in areas of demand and ensure a qualitative, effective and professional service is provided to victims.

Support required by MPA and DSVB

5.14 SCD2 and BOCU would wish the MPA to:

Sponsor Victim Focused performance that measure outcomes rather than Sanction Detection.

To provide clarity on what constitutes good performance

To maintain, so far as is possible, the current levels of resource and funding for tackling DV and SV.

Equality and Diversity Statement.

5.15 Islington Borough recognises that domestic and sexual violence exists within all social and economic groups and across every aspect of the community. We ensure that all victims of DV or SV are dealt with according to their individual needs and this is put in practice by working closely in partnership with all of our statutory and voluntary partners whilst ensuring that carefully drafted practices and policies are adhered to.

5.16 There is a third party reporting scheme in place where victims of all forms of hate crime are able to report to the Police through non police organisations, such as Victim Support, Citizens Advice or Housing Associations.

5.17 There has been an increase of hate crime reporting of about 10%. This could be due to an increase in public confidence in the Police.

5.18 Islington CSU Detective Chief Inspector is a member of the Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults review group who meet monthly. Cases of suspected carer abuse or the neglect of vulnerable adults are referred by all partner agencies to the committee to review the case and any ongoing investigation.

5.19 Islington Police has working groups in relation to all of the six equality strands. These groups have membership from Police Officers and Staff as well as members of the community. The groups look at all aspects of diversity involving the Police both within and outside the organisation in support of the MPS Equalities Scheme and Diversity Action Plan.

5.20 CSU Detective Inspector is a member of the Disability Equality Group and Learning Disabilities Partnership Board. Police encourage the reporting of crime from the disabled community. The CSU has introduced a 3-month pilot scheme where a Deaf Link phone is accessible for non-emergency calls and advice is texted back by a trained officer

5.21 Islington CSU staff have all completed mandatory Equality and Diversity training, most having completed a one-week CSU course, which provides specialist training around diversity issues like HBV. The CSU has officers that represent the BME community, LGBT community and disabled staff, which enables the unit to understand the needs of the victims that they support

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