S.O SFG 2: The Management and Deployment of Family Liaison Officers PDF

**THE MANAGEMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF FAMILY LIAISON OFFICERS** **TABLE OF DOCUMENT DETAILS** Title -------------------------------- -- Reference No Relevant Department or group Ownership Document author...

**THE MANAGEMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF FAMILY LIAISON OFFICERS** **TABLE OF DOCUMENT DETAILS** Title -------------------------------- -- Reference No Relevant Department or group Ownership Document author Approved by Approval Date Implementation Date To be Reviewed Date Last Revised Date Quality Assured By Protective Marking Linked to other Standing Order Relevant Legislation Pages **TABLE OF CONTENTS** [Introduction](#Section1) [Page 3](#Section1) [Section 1](#Section1) ------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------------- -------------------------- [Intention](#Section2) [Page 3](#Section2) [Section 2](#Section2) [General Principles](#Section3) [Page 3-4](#Section3) [Section 3](#Section3) [Statement of Policy](#Section4) [Page 4](#Section4) [Section 4](#Section4) [Implications of the Policy](#Section5) [Page 5](#Section5) [Section 5](#Section5) [Selection of Deployment](#Section6) [Page 6-7](#Section6) [Section 6](#Section6) [Deployment Procedure](#Section7) [Page 7-8](#Section7) [Section 7](#Section6) [**Individual Roles and Responsibilities**](#Section8) [Page 8-11](#Section8) [Section 8](#Section8) [Record Keeping and Disclosure](#Section9) [Page 11-12](#Section9) [Section 9](#Section9) [Mobile Phone Use](#Section12) [Page 12](#Section12) [Section 10](#Section10) [Support and Supervision](#Section11) [Page 12-13](#Section11) [Section 11](#Section11) [Compliance and Certification](#Section12) [Page 14-15](#Section12) [Section 12](#Section12) [SIO Family Liaison Strategy Sample](#Section13) [ ] [Page 15-18](#Section13) [Section 13](#Section13) [Officers Appointed Roles of FLCs and FLOs](#Section14) [Page 18-19](#Section14) [Section 14](#Section14) [Abbreviations and Glossary](#AbbreviationsAndGlossary) [Page 19](#AbbreviationsAndGlossary) **INDEX OF APPENDICES** [Appendix 1](#Appendix1) [Family Liaison Officers Deployment Data Analysis](#Appendix1) [Page 20](#Appendix1) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------- [SBAP/CR/17-V](file:///%5C%5Cdiif.r.mil.uk%5Cgroups%5CEUNSBAPOLICE%5CSBA-POLICE_INTRANET%5CPolice%20Forms%5CCrime%5CGeneral%20Investigation%5CC_17_V.doc) [Family Liaison Officers Log](file:///%5C%5Cdiif.r.mil.uk%5Cgroups%5CEUNSBAPOLICE%5CSBA-POLICE_INTRANET%5CPolice%20Forms%5CCrime%5CGeneral%20Investigation%5CC_17_V.doc) [SBAP/CR/19-V](file:///%5C%5Cdiif.r.mil.uk%5Cgroups%5CEUNSBAPOLICE%5CSBA-POLICE_INTRANET%5CPolice%20Forms%5CCrime%5CGeneral%20Investigation%5CC_19_V.dot) [Instructional Log Booklet](file:///%5C%5Cdiif.r.mil.uk%5Cgroups%5CEUNSBAPOLICE%5CSBA-POLICE_INTRANET%5CPolice%20Forms%5CCrime%5CGeneral%20Investigation%5CC_19_V.dot) [SBAP/CR/20-V](file:///%5C%5Cdiif.r.mil.uk%5Cgroups%5CEUNSBAPOLICE%5CSBA-POLICE_INTRANET%5CPolice%20Forms%5CCrime%5CGeneral%20Investigation%5CC_20_V.dot) [Family Liaison Supervision Log](file:///%5C%5Cdiif.r.mil.uk%5Cgroups%5CEUNSBAPOLICE%5CSBA-POLICE_INTRANET%5CPolice%20Forms%5CCrime%5CGeneral%20Investigation%5CC_20_V.dot) **1. Introduction:** 1. []{#Section1.anchor}This Policy has been drafted in accordance with the Human Rights Act 1998. It is aimed at all officers involved in any investigation where the circumstances of that investigation warrant consideration of deployment of a Family Liaison Officer ([FLO](#FLO)). 2. **Family Liaison is a significant resource that can be used across a broad spectrum** of policing. In acknowledging this, the guidance set out in this policy and associated procedure should be considered in circumstances where there has been an unexplained or violent death, particularly in respect of:- - - - - - - - - **2. Intention:** 2.1 []{#Section2.anchor}The intention of this policy is to ensure the four main objectives of family liaison detailed in Para 4.3 are achieved by appropriate: - - **3. General Principle** 1. []{#Section3.anchor}Liaison with the family of someone, who has died in traumatic circumstances or has been the victim of a serious sexual or domestic violence or child abuse offence, is one of the most demanding of all tasks performed by police officers. The huge responsibility that we have towards the family of the victim cannot be overstated. The main over-riding principles are: - - - **4. Statement of Policy** 1. []{#Section4.anchor}Where the SBA Police have primacy for the investigation in any of the cases/incidents detailed in Para 1.2 above, the primary responsibility for deployment of family liaison rests with us. 2. In discharging our responsibilities for family liaison, the aims of the SBA police service are as follows: - - - 3. The main objectives arising from these aims are: - - - - 4.4 The primary function of a [FLO](#FLO) is that of the Investigator and he/she will form an integral part of the investigation team. In performing this role the officer will offer and facilitate support to the family with consideration being given to their needs. 4.5 The [FLO](#FLO) should not under any circumstances assume or be expected to assume the responsibility of counselling a victim's family. This does not; however preclude an [FLO](#FLO) from offering sympathy or moral support. **5. Implications of Policy** 1. []{#Section5.anchor}**Race Relations/Diversity** This policy is relevant to the obligations upon the service to:- - - - 2. **Financial Implications** 5.2.1 There are no additional financial implications to this policy; however adequate systems need to be in place at both force and divisional level for the selection, management and deployment of [FLO](#FLO)s. Any system should include management of welfare, risk assessment of each deployment and PDR objectives of the officer concerned. A record of current and previous deployments, in addition to a record of any specialist knowledge or skill of each [FLO](#FLO), should be maintained **(Appendix1)**. There will be some financial implication to the development of an appropriate [FLO](#FLO) system within the organisation, which will be managed as part of the Force training plan. 3. **Staffing and Training** 5.3.1 Those performing the role of a [FLO](#FLO) must always act with the highest degree of professionalism and carry out their duties with great sensitivity. Careful consideration should therefore be given about the suitability of officers to be trained for this role. Officers should be volunteers, having a clear and reasoned motive, reflecting genuine commitment for wishing to train and operate as a [FLO](#FLO). However, Officers who voluntarily undergo [FLO](#FLO) [ ] training are expected to perform the role for a significant period of time before withdrawing, unless serious reasons including welfare of officers, change of roles, and promotions, may render them no longer deployable. 5.3.2 SBA Police is able to provide accredited training for Family Liaison Officers by way of internal or external courses. Divisions are required to ensure that sufficient numbers of accredited [FLO](#FLO)s are available to deploy to incidents to which this policy applies. 5.3.3 [FLC](#FLC)s have been appointed to assist with the selection, management of deployment, risk assessment of deployment and welfare issues in respect of individual [FLO.](#FLO) **6. Selection of Deployment** 1. []{#Section6.anchor}In considering the deployment of [FLO](#FLO)s, the [SIO](#SIO) should take account of the individual [FLO](#FLO)'s ability to perform the function, at that time, effectively. The [SIO](#SIO) [ ] will task the [FLC](#FLC) to select [FLO](#FLO)(s). See form [**(Appendix 1).**](#Appendix1) 2. Whilst performing the role, officers, have access to support and counselling and have clear lines of communication with the [FLC](#FLC) and [SIO](#SIO) receiving regular briefings and de-briefing. 3. The [SIO](#SIO) in conjunction with the [FLC](#FLC) is able to monitor the work of the [FLO](#FLO) ensuring that tasks set fall within the overall aim and objectives of the liaison and that the role is performed within the parameters of the clear and concise written guidelines. 4. The [FLC](#FLC) should not exclude an individual [FLO](#FLO) from being appointed to an investigation without discussing the reasons with the [SIO](#SIO); so far as this does not breach confidentiality. 5. The [SIO](#SIO) [ ] together with the [FLO](#FLO) must risk assess the circumstances in which the [FLO](#FLO) is deployed. For example, control measures may need to be undertaken where there is a suspect within the family, if the offender's family are likely to attempt retribution on the victim's family or if the location to which the [FLO](#FLO) will be deployed has inherent risks. 6. During initial stages of an investigation, the deployment of two [FLO](#FLO)s should be considered. This is national best practise and will be the decision of [the SIO](#SIO) in conjunction with the [FLC.](#FLO) 7. On deciding which [FLO](#FLO) to deploy the [FLC](#FLC) [ ] should consider the need of even routine deployment of all [FLOs](#FLO) so that they equally practise their relevant skills and knowledge thus maintaining a general effectiveness and best value. **7. Deployment Procedure** 1. []{#Section7.anchor}The authority to deploy a [FLO](#FLO) lies with the [SIO](#SIO), in conjunction with the [FLC](#FLC)[.] 2. At no time will a [FLO](#FLO) self-deploy or be appointed directly by a Major Crime Investigation Team or Divisional [SIO](#SIO). 3. Details of any deployment must be notified to the [FLC](#FLC) by [SIO](#SIO) as soon as practicable if out of normal working hours. 4. The formal appointment of [FLO](#FLO) by [SIO](#SIO) should be made by means of an informed decision with relevant justification in the [SIO](#SIO) [ ] Policy book, a copy of which should be given to the [FLO](#FLO). If the deployment relates to an investigation supported by a Major incident room a relevant task should be issued. **8. Individual Roles and Responsibilities:** 8.1 []{#Section8.anchor}Role of the [SIO](#SIO) 8.1.1 The [SIO](#SIO) is responsible for the deployment, implementation and maintenance of [FLO](#FLO) strategy. The [FLO](#FLO) strategy will take into consideration the following point: - - - - - - - - - - - - 8.1.2 The [SIO](#SIO) should meet with the family together with the [FLO](#FLO) as soon as possible after the incident. 2. Role of the [FLC](#FLC) 8.2.1 The [FLC](#FLC) is responsible for the strategic and tactical support to [FLO](#FLO)s and [SIO](#SIO)s and has responsibility for the deployment of the [FLO](#FLO)s. The main responsibilities of the [FLC](#FLC) are as follows: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8.2.2 The [FLC](#FLC) must have attended a Family Liaison Officer Co-ordinator's course. 3. Role of the [FLO](#FLO) 8.3.1 The main objectives of the role of the [FLOs](#FLO) are the ones mentioned in Para 4.3 above. The primary role of the [FLO](#FLO) is that of an investigator. 2. The [FLO](#FLO) should make arrangements to meet with the family as soon as possible. 3. Before meeting with the family the [FLO](#FLO) will receive a briefing from the [SIO](#SIO) and [FLC](#FLC) and be made aware of any risk assessment issue. A relevant policy should be made in [SIO](#SIO)[s] policy book and the [FLO](#FLO) [ ] should make an entry in the Instructional Log Book. **(SBAP/CR/19-V).** 4. A policy should be prepared by the [SIO](#SIO) in consultation with the [FLC](#FLC) with the objectives as to what the [FLO](#FLO)s should be expected to do, along with the risk assessment[^1^](#fn1){#fnref1.footnote-ref}. The [FLO](#FLO) should be asked to read the policy, sign it and adhere to its objectives. Also contained in the strategy should be exit strategies for their return to their normal duty. Once the main objectives of the strategy have been met the [FLO](#FLO) should be released from the enquiry and return to their normal duties. This can be enforced by the [FLC](#FLC) in consultation with the [SIO](#SIO)[.] 5. The main responsibilities carried out by the [FLO](#FLO) would normally be: - - - - - - - - - 8.3.6 All the above actions will be done immediately, although the statement will be done according to the needs of the investigation, balanced with the needs of the family. 8.3.7 The tasks below can be done during an appropriate time: - - - 8. The decision of whether the [FLO](#FLO) attends a funeral or not, will be taken by the [SIO](#SIO) in consultation with the [FLC](#FLC) and [FLO](#FLO)[.] 9. The [FLO](#FLO) strategy should also address the exit strategy for the [FLO](#FLO). The exit strategy should contain how long the [FLO](#FLO) is expected to remain on the enquiry and how the family will be managed thereafter. The [SIO](#SIO), [FLC](#FLC) and [FLO](#FLO) should have a de-brief at a suitable time for learning points to be raised. Log books, rough books and statements will also be monitored by the [FLC](#FLC) to ensure standards are being maintained. Upon deployment the [FLO](#FLO) will be issued with a mobile phone and Log book. 3. What the [FLO](#FLO) should not be doing. - - - **9. Record Keeping and Disclosure:** 1. []{#Section9.anchor}At the commencement of an enquiry the [FLO](#FLO) must commence an Instructional Log Booklet **(SBAP/CR/19-V)**, to record down all the initial as well as further instructions from [SIO](#SIO) and a Family Liaison Officer's Log **(SBAP/CR/17-V)**, in which they must record all contacts with the family / next of kin, representatives of the family and other parties connected to the family. 2. The log should be maintained by the [FLO](#FLO) and supervised at regular intervals by the [SIO](#SIO). The log may also be examined by [FLC](#FLC). 3. Record keeping is essential to the role of the family liaison. It provides the facility for the SIO to manage effectively. It ensures there is an accurate and transparent record for review. 4. The logs are "original notes" and care should be taken in completion of the log. Future disclosure must be considered. Any other means of recording contact must be maintained and disclosed, such as loose pieces of paper. **10. Mobile Phone Use:** 10.1 []{#Section10.anchor}The [FLC](#FLC) has a mobile phone with a dedicated telephone number available for exclusive use of a [FLO](#FLO) whilst deployed. The [FLC](#FLC) [ ] will issue the [FLO](#FLO) with the said mobile phone and on completion it will be returned to the [FLC](#FLC). It will be used only for the use of the specific deployment and under no circumstances this number should be used for any other Police operations. **11. Support and Supervision:** 11.1 []{#Section11.anchor}The support and supervision needs of [FLO](#FLO)s, with particular regard to their health and welfare, must be met as detailed in the [ACPO](#AbbreviationsAndGlossary) Family Liaison Strategy Manual (2008). 11.2 The strategy for [FLO](#FLO) [ ] deployment will be recorded in the SIO's policy log. See Section 13 for examples of [FLO](#FLO) deployment and exit strategies. 11.3 Any supervisor or colleague of a [FLO](#FLO), who has concerns or issues regarding their deployment in the [FLO](#FLO) role, should bring them to the attention of the individual [FLO](#FLO) and the [FLC](#FLC). 4. During [FLO](#FLO) deployment the [SIO](#SIO) and [FLC](#FLC) must be notified of any complaints by the family and take appropriate action. 5. At the conclusion of each deployment each [FLO](#FLO) will be de-briefed by the [FLC](#FLC) to discuss the commitment. This de-brief will include: - - - - 11.6 Each individual [FLO](#FLO) will attend mandatory de-briefings with the Wellbeing Consultant of the SBA's every 12 months. More frequent de-briefings may be arranged at the discretion of the [FLC](#FLC) taking into account: - - - - - - 11.7 [FLC](#FLC) will hold a confidential referral file[^2^](#fn2){#fnref2.footnote-ref}, under lock and key see **(SBAP/CR/20-V)**. It will be clearly marked, "This file has been created on the advice of the Wellbeing Consultant." It is solely for the use of the FLC. This file will only contain a record of the dates each individual [FLO](#FLO) has completed a mandatory visit to the said consultant 8. No [FLO](#FLO) will be re-deployed in the role unless the requirement to attend mandatory debriefings is complied with. 9. Identified [FLO](#FLO)s will arrange bi-annual meetings with all trained [FLO](#FLO)s which will be a forum to support one another, identify areas of good practice, raise areas of concern to the co-ordinator and discuss any other matters that may be of relevance. The purpose of these seminars is to share and gather good practice for implementation, provide networking opportunities, monitor workloads and to assist with the development and training of [FLO](#FLO)s. The Human Resources Officer HQ should also be present during these meeting. **12. Compliance and Certification:** **12.1** []{#Section12.anchor}**Human Rights Certification** ***(ii) Human Rights Articles Engaged*** - - - - ***(iii) Prohibition of Discrimination*** **12.2 Diversity (Human Resources)** **13. SIO Family Liaison Strategy Sample:** **13.1** []{#Section13.anchor}Generic initial [FLO](#FLO) deployment strategy: I have decided to appoint two [FLO](#FLO)s, PC 2222 and PC 5555 to engage with the victim's immediate family. **14. Officers Appointed Roles of FLCs and FLOs** 14.1 []{#Section14.anchor}The following Officers are currently performing the role of **Family Liaison Coordinators:** - - - **14.2 The following Officers are currently trained active Family liaison Officers:** ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **[ESBA]** ------------------------ --------------------------------- ------------------ --------------------------- -- ** ** **Name** **Contact Nos** **Address** **1** **PC 515 Ismet Houssein** **99608938\ **Pyla - Larnaca** 00903923793132\ 24645582** **2** **PC 521 Christiana Englezou** **99423122\ **Livadhia - Larnaka** 24534122** **3** **PC 553 Odul Vudali** **99900136\ **Nicosia** 00905338345502** **4** **PC 574 Maria Nourou** **99880071** **Ayia Napa - Famagusta** ** ** ** ** **[WSBA]** ** ** **Name** **Contact Nos** **Address** **1** **PS 172 Loucas Panayiotou** **25712168\ **Ypsonas - Limassol** 99664151** **2** **PC 226 Polys Christodoulou** **25387970\ **Limassol\ 99555722** (Tsirio area)** **3** **PC 247 Petros Garcia** **25935585\ **Polemidia - Limassol** 99433124** **4** **PC 372 Andreas Agathocleous** **99131699** **Paphos** **5** **PC 560 Maria Mama** **99382610** **Psematismenos** **6** **PC 565 Maria Charalambous** **96346339** **Limassol** ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ***Abbreviations and Glossary*** []{#AbbreviationsAndGlossary.anchor}***ACPO:*** *Association of Chief Police Officers.* []{#FLC.anchor}***FLC:** Family Liaison Coordinator. An officer appointed to coordinate deployment of Family Liaison Officers.* []{#FLO.anchor}***FLO:** Family Liaison Officer. A specially trained officer appointed to maintain contact with the victim of a serious crime and his/her family.* ***I.O.:** Investigating Officer. The appointed officer in-charge of a Police Investigation.* ***MIR:** Major Incident Room.* []{#SIO.anchor}***S.I.O.:** Senior Investigating Officer. The appointed Officer in-charge of a Serious or Major Investigation, normally an officer trained in the management of major or serious crime.* ***Suspect:** Is a person suspected on reasonable grounds of having involvement in a criminal case under investigation, declared as such by the I.O. of the case.* Annex 1 []{#Appendix1.anchor}Serial No Division RCI/DOR No SIO FLO Coordinator FLO Case Title Role On Role Off Primary / Secondary Remarks FLOs Job No --------------------------------- ---------- ------------ ----- ----------------- ----- ------------ --------- ---------- --------------------- --------- ------------- ::: {.section.footnotes} ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1. ::: {#fn1} See Sample policies[↩](#fnref1){.footnote-back} ::: 2. ::: {#fn2} This file will be marked as "restricted" under the Government Protected Marking Scheme[↩](#fnref2){.footnote-back} ::: :::