Thames Valley Police launches pilot with Domestic Abuse Specialists to support victims
The new initiative aims to improve response and support for domestic abuse victims in Thames Valley
Thames Valley Police have launched a new pilot embedding Domestic Abuse Specialists within Contact Management Centres to enhance support for domestic abuse victims.
Raneem’s Law pilot, introduced by Thames Valley Police and commissioned by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), began earlier this month as part of a national Home Office programme.
The initiative, inspired by the tragic case of Raneem Oudeh, aims to prevent further tragedies and improve support for victims and survivors.
Four Domestic Abuse Specialists from the charity Aurora New Dawn are now working alongside Thames Valley Police staff and officers across Contact Management Centres in Abingdon, Milton Keynes, and Kidlington.
They are involved in reviewing domestic abuse calls in real time or shortly afterward, assessing risks, identifying safeguarding opportunities, and advising officers and staff.
Detective Superintendent Holly Stockwell, the force lead for Domestic Abuse, described the integration of Domestic Abuse Specialists as a "hugely positive step" in protecting victims and ensuring justice for perpetrators.
She urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to come forward and assured them of the support available.
The specialists are also assisting Rapid Video Response teams, which offer video calls with frontline officers for non-emergency incidents, and are expected to play a role in ongoing officer training.
Operations Director of Aurora New Dawn, Lyn Tiller, emphasised the importance of the collaboration in delivering high-quality and consistent responses to abuse-related calls, ensuring victims receive appropriate support from their first police contact.
Thames Valley Police is partnering with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary in rolling out this pilot.
Chief Constable Jason Hogg expressed belief that Raneem’s Law would help identify those most at risk, reinforcing the force's commitment to combat domestic abuse, which has been declared a national emergency.
He encouraged collective action to support victims and amplify their voices within the community.