More officers training to respond to serious sexual assaults

More response officers are being given enhanced training to improve their response to survivors of rape and sexual assault.

Nottinghamshire Police currently has more than 160 specially trained officers (STOs) – each with enhanced training to support victims and secure crucial evidence.

As they are likely to be first on the scene when a report is made, a specially trained response officer is ready 24/7 to help people in Nottinghamshire.

As well as launching a programme of refresher training for existing STOs, the force is working towards training even more officers in the coming months.

Detective Inspector Kylie Westlake, speaking after the first of the  refresher courses was held at Nottinghamshire Police HQ last week, said:

“When victims of rape and sexual assault call the police to tell us what’s happened to them it is vital that we get our first response right.

“We understand how difficult that first step can be for people, so we have put in a lot of work to ensure we get things right first time.

“The role of a STO is to give the best possible advice and support with empathy and understanding, as well as ensuring that vital evidence is secured in an appropriate way.

“That may include seeking the victims consent to record their account on officer body worn video or to use an early evidence kit, which is a quick non-invasive procedure including mouth rinse and a urine sample”

It important, however, to remember that victims are always in complete control of what happens next.

Detective Inspector Westlake added:

“We understand what a huge step it is for people to contact us for help, and also know that some people may not feel ready to talk to us or able to support a prosecution at that moment.

“That is okay and a good STO can make all the difference in that moment by letting people know what their options are, establishing a good rapport and directing people to whatever support they need.

“That is why we are working to recruit more and invest further training in the ones we already have.”

For more information and support please visit:

Support after rape and sexual assault | Nottinghamshire Police

Your Journey | Consent Coalition

Nottinghamshire Police is currently implementing a programme of improvements to the way it investigates rape and serious sexual offences. The Operation Soteria reforms are tried and tested and are now being put into place across the country.