Victims of sexual abuse needed to help reshape PSNI response

By Q Radio News

The PSNI’s Public Protection Branch (PPB) have launched a sexual abuse and sexual violence victim support questionnaire.

It’s hoped it will lead to a better service being offered to those affected.

Detective Chief Inspector Siobhan Ennis, said: “Sexual abuse and violence is a horrific crime that can affect anyone - it doesn’t matter what age, gender, race or sexuality you are. 

“Supporting victims of sexual violence is a major priority within our organisation. 

“We want to deliver an exemplary service to every single victim.  We want to promote confidence in the investigative process and ensure our victims are engaged and supported through the whole criminal justice process.”

Victims will be asked to complete the questionnaire at the end of investigations even if it doesn’t go to court or the complaint is withdrawn.  

The survey will be conducted over the phone by a Rape Crime Unit Sergeant who has had no involvement in the investigation.

It will address four key areas including; 

-Initial response:  where emphasis will be on the first engagement by Local Policing Teams

-Initial meeting with specialist officer from Public Protection at The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre

-Victim support and quality of engagement by investigating officer throughout the course of the investigation

-Experience of the criminal justice process

The information provided will be completely anonymous however DCI Ennis acknowledged that it’s not easy for people to speak to strangers.  

“The trauma associated with such an intrusive and interpersonal crime can never be under-estimated; it often leaves victims confused and uncertain about proceeding with a formal complaint. 

“Those who do, can sometimes, for a variety of reasons, withdraw before the process has concluded. 

“However, I would like to take this opportunity to assure anyone who comes to us they will be treated with the utmost respect and dignity at all times.

“Whilst it is our responsibility to investigate, the welfare of the victim will always come first. We will be with them every step of the way and we will guide them through the whole investigative process – they will not be alone."

“To help improve the service we offer to victims of sexual violence we want to not only listen to their views and opinions but to hear and act on them.

“It is only by doing this that we can adapt and act on their feedback to improve our performance, secure better outcomes and give victims confidence in the police.”

Victims have been urged to participate and report crimes ragardless of how long ago they were committed and to reach out to other agencies which offer help and support including the Rowan Centre and Northern Ireland’s regional sexual assault referral centre (SARC).

“The experience of being a victim of any type of crime is a very difficult one. However, the Rowan Centre, will provide a complete and co-ordinated package of care to promote recovery and wellbeing and greatly enhance the investigative process,” DCI Ennis concluded. 

“If you have been the victim of sexual abuse or sexual violence please contact the police on 101, or in an emergency always call 999. The Rowan Centre can also be contacted 24/7, 365 days a year on 0800 389 4424.”

“For further details please visit the Sexual Violence and Abuse section on our website.”