Information
HMICFRS Report – Progress to introduce a national operating model for rape and other serious sexual offences investigations
Operation Soteria is an unprecedented programme to transform how the Crown Prosecution Service and police forces across England and Wales respond to rape and other serious sexual offences (RASSO). Soteria aims to create effective suspect-focused RASSO investigations, where the police support victims and understand their needs. It also aims to make sure intelligence, analysis and digital forensics are used effectively to support cases. Since 2021, 19 early adopter forces have been putting Soteria in place via the National Operating Model.
In May 2023, the then Home Secretary commissioned HMICFRS to carry out this inspection using the powers under section 54(2B) of the Police Act 1996. They inspected 9 early adopter forces to evaluate their progress so far. Their report sets out their findings.
A copy of the report can be downloaded here
PFCC Response
We welcome the report and its recommendations from HMICFRS on progress to deliver the national operating model for RASSO and other serious sexual offences. RASSO and Serious Sexual Violence is a key priority for the PFCC in Northamptonshire and we will ensure that through our accountability process with Northamptonshire Police that the specific recommendations for implementation at a local level are delivered and their impacts felt for staff and victims. We will ensure we continue to advocate for victims with the MoJ and Home Office and seek long term funding solutions to enable the recommendations of the report specific to specialist victim service delivery and support.
