Cover of Dame Elish Angionlini’s review of how the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) investigate and prosecute rape cases.

The Met Police has commissioned and opened nine new video interview suites to improve the experience of crime victims.

The programme has included the refurbishment of 43 old victim interview suites.

This is part of the implementation of key recommendations from Dame Elish Angiolini’s review of Met Police rape investigations, published earlier last week.

Dame Elish Angiolini, Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe and Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London Baljit Ubhey at the press conference (2 June). Image: Met Police

The report called for improved police facilities for victims of rape and sexual assault.

The project also involves upgrading recording equipment to digital standard.

Commander Peter Spindler, who heads up the project, said:

This project is about treating victims with greater care, improving criminal justice outcomes, increasing efficiencies through modernisation, and saving costs.

We have significantly improved our facilities for victims of rape and sexual assault; providing a better and more comfortable environment at a time when they are recounting to police the most traumatic of events. This is the first time in the history of the Met that a holistic approach has been taken to interviewing facilities in London.

Stephen Greenhalgh, the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said:

Victims of rape and other sexual offences have experienced some of the most horrific crimes imaginable and need every possible support. I’m proud that we are investing £10m of the money raised from the sale of underutilised buildings to deliver these better facilities and new technology.

This new equipment will dramatically improve the support for victims and increase the chances of bringing perpetrators to justice. The new suites are a really positive step towards ensuring more victims have the confidence they need to come forward and report these horrific crimes, and receive a 21st century service.

Dame Elish Angionlini’s report and the Met Police and CPS response below. Click on titles to download.

co387-15Dame Elish Angiolini Rape Review 2015

co387-15Dame Elish joint response final