A major step forward in addressing rape and serious sexual offences has been taken as part of a national scheme led by the government.
Operation Soteria, launched in 2021 as a component of the government’s Rape Review, is a research and change program funded by the Home Office. It has developed a new national operating model for the investigation and prosecution of rape and serious sexual assault.
It has been announced that all police forces in England and Wales will implement this groundbreaking model, marking a significant milestone in the fight against these heinous crimes.
The collaborative nature of this initiative saw 19 police forces, including Wiltshire Police, come together with academics to understand and confront the challenges faced in rape and serious sexual offences investigations.
Through a supported self-assessment process, a comprehensive plan has been devised aimed at driving systematic and sustainable improvements to the way rape cases are handled.
The national model prioritises suspect-focused investigations while ensuring continuous support for victims throughout the process. It also emphasises the need for more specialised training for officers. Additionally, closer collaboration with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) will remain a crucial element of the operation.
In response to the government’s announcement, Assistant Chief Constable Debs Smith of Wiltshire Police stated, “Our participation in the initial stages of Operation Soteria, alongside 18 other forces, allowed us to critically assess our investigative practices concerning serious sexual assaults and identify areas where further improvements were necessary within Wiltshire Police.”
She continued, “In Wiltshire, we have been making significant strides in improving our approach to investigating rape and serious sexual assaults, as well as enhancing the care, support, and assistance provided to victims in each case. This, combined with our ongoing collaboration with the CPS to address low charge and conviction rates, will ultimately help us bring more offenders to justice.”
Operation Soteria, bolstered by additional government support and enhanced training for staff, will enable Wiltshire Police to continue its vital work in improving the experiences of victims and strengthening efforts to apprehend suspects and offenders.
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson echoed the sentiment, emphasising the importance of believing and respecting victims of rape and serious sexual assault. He stressed that every police force must be dedicated to delivering quality, thorough, and suspect-focused investigations that ensure justice is served.
“Soteria ensures that every police force is focused not only on improving the service victims receive but also on enhancing charge rates and convictions, which have historically been shockingly low,” Wilkinson stated.
“These principles perfectly align with the priorities outlined in my police and crime plan.”
He went on to highlight the substantial progress made by Wiltshire Police in transforming their approach to these crimes, including an intensified victim-centered strategy and close collaboration with criminal justice partners. In addition, the police and crime commissioner’s office has doubled its funding for rape and sexual assault victims this year, with a £400,000 investment solely in support services.
Both Wilkinson and the Chief Constable are unwavering in their commitment to ensuring that Wiltshire Police consistently delivers the service its residents deserve, and they continue their relentless pursuit of that goal.
The implementation of Operation Soteria across all police forces in England and Wales marks a significant milestone in the fight against rape and serious sexual offences. With a united and focused approach, backed by government support and a commitment to victim-centered investigations, there is hope for a future where justice is served, offenders are held accountable, and survivors are supported on their path to healing.
