Slough Borough Council: Thames Valley Police

Thames Valley Police

For many victims of domestic abuse, calling the police is not their first option, but may be the last resort after repeated attacks. Neighbours may also call the police when hearing the violence going on.

If you do call the police, make sure you are given a crime reference number as this may be helpful to you in the future.

Role of the Police and the Crown Prosecution Service

To attend all domestic related calls
Positive intervention at the scene. This can act as a deterrent against re-offending, can show your abuser that the police take domestic abuse seriously, it is not acceptable and they must be held accountable for their actions
To protect the lives of both adults and children who are at risk of domestic abuse
Risk assessment: to assess the imminent risk of harm to a victim and manage this risk accordingly
If no offence has taken place, police may still remove the offender as a precaution to prevent further Breach of the Peace
Police have powers under the Children's Act to remove children to a place of safety if they are thought to be at risk during an incident of domestic abuse
To investigate all incidents of domestic abuse
To have a proactive multi-agency approach
Arrest does not necessarily lead to a charge. Police will need to liaise with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for advice on how to proceed with the prosecution. The CPS will take into account the safety of the victim and others involved. Views of the victim will be heard but this is not a determining factor
If you wish to withdraw your support, the CPS will want to know why and a statement will be taken from you by the police. The final decision will still be made by the CPS who may decide that it is in the ‘public interest’ to go ahead with the case

Role of the Domestic Abuse Unit

To effectively investigate all reports of domestic abuse
To risk assess every domestic abuse incident
To case manage 'High Risk' victims to protect the lives of both adults and children who are at risk as a result of domestic abuse
When deemed necessary to put safety mechanisms in place for victims' protection
To offer advice and help to victims experiencing domestic abuse, signposting them to relevant support agencies
To take a pro-active approach to preventing and reducing domestic abuse throughout Berkshire East
To facilitate effective action against offenders in order that they can be held accountable through the Criminal Justice System
To notify the Referral and Assessment Team and the Designated Nurse for Child Protection if there are children in the family who are present/or not, when a domestic incident is reported to the Police
To attend Case Conferences with other agencies regarding children and victims
To work closely with external agencies such as Women’s Aid
To refer cases to the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) and Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) service to reduce and manage the risk of serious injury or death to victims and their children