HMIC recognises improvement in service to domestic abuse victims
A recent independent inspection by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) in October 2007 has recognised a significant improvement in the service Warwickshire Police gives to victims of domestic abuse.
HM Inspectors have given Warwickshire Police a GOOD rating for protecting vulnerable people from Domestic Abuse in the county.
This places Warwickshire Police amongst the top 14 forces in England and Wales with only one force achieving the top rating of EXCELLENT.
Chief Supt Neil Brunton said "We are pleased the improvement in our service to domestic abuse victims has been independently recognised but we are determined to improve further."
Since Colette Lynch was tragically killed almost three years ago, Warwickshire Police has thoroughly reviewed its response to domestic abuse and made significant improvements aimed at ensuring victims are protected from harm.
Chief Supt Brunton said "This work has included a full review of Domestic Abuse actively led by the Assistant Chief Constable Lewis Benjamin."
"December is a peak time for domestic abuse incidents and it is vital that any victim has the confidence to come forward and report incidents of domestic abuse to us."
Supt Neil Hewison said "We have a far more coordinated response with both police and partners and this has been reflected in increased reporting of domestic abuse incidents which is indicative of victims having greater confidence in police dealing with them effectively.
"One of our greatest challenges is the large caseload and we are investing in more staff to assess the risk and look after victims.
"Between 2005 and 2007 the number of domestic abuse incidents reported to us increased from 4000 to 7000 incidents.
"This demonstrates that members of the public have greater trust and confidence in us to respond effectively and provide the services that victims and families need, working closely with other agencies.
"We are also taking positive action against offenders. Since April this year Warwickshire Police has arrested 1000 people as a result of our attendance to incidents of domestic abuse which clearly indicates that positive action is being taken to address these crimes.
"All of our officers are receiving specific training on domestic abuse not only on the criminal investigation side but also in terms of victim care and linking in with specific agencies.
"The ongoing risk assessment and monitoring process is robust and where a high risk victim is identified officers are required to take action."
Julie Sullivan, Corporate Community Safety Manager for Warwickshire County Council said: "Multi-agency partnership has always been at the forefront of domestic abuse work across Warwickshire.
"Agencies such as Warwickshire County Council, the district and borough councils, criminal justice and voluntary organisations are successfully working together to provide services to victims of domestic abuse.
"We are currently developing a joint domestic abuse strategy for the county including how agencies can better provide services to victims of domestic abuse and their children.
"We aim to work together now and in the future, to prevent incidents of domestic abuse, protect victims from further harm and deal effectively with perpetrators."