Child Abuse Investigation DS
Grade: Sergeant
Role code: EPN0307
Status: Police
Limited Duties Category: A - Likely to be suitable
Main purpose of the role:
Conduct investigations into all child protection referrals, taking responsibility for the whole process, from initial report stage, planning the investigation strategy, to court hearing and beyond. Participating with Social Services and other agencies involved in Child Protection on joint investigations and strategy discussions. Detective Sergeants are responsible for the supervision of staff at individual CAIU offices.
Main responsibilities:
- Provide guidance and support to Detective Constables and administration staff on the unit, including monitoring performance, developing and appraising them as appropriate.
- Investigate cases of child homicide and other serious crimes, if appropriate, resulting from child abuse.
- Attend Inter-Agency Strategy Meetings in respect of such cases and in particular cases of organised abuse.
- Supervise child abuse investigations conducted by others on the department.
- Submit prosecution files within established time limits and check other officers files prior to there submission to senior officers and /or Crown Prosecution Services, and to make appropriate recommendations.
- Attend case conferences and other Inter-Agency Meetings.
- Allocate follow-up home visits where appropriate for domestic violence, returned missing children and specified vulnerable persons.
- Develop local intelligence and strategies to combat paedophile activity.
- Prepare officers duties, overtime returns and complete other administrative tasks.
- Attend Child Abuse Investigation Unit Management Meetings.
- Assist with local Inter-Agency training.
- Liaise with representatives from other statutory and voluntary agencies ensuring a positive image of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit and ultimately how Essex Police is portrayed.
- Liaising directly with CPS regarding evidence files of a sensitive nature.
- Undertakes such other reasonable duties as may be required from time to time.
Updated April 2013
Vetting level:
Management Vetting required.
Necessary experience:
Hours of duty are primarily day and late turn duties, normally Monday to Friday with weekend cover on a rota basis. Officers must be flexible, as there is a need to work some unsocial hours. Need to travel county wide. Casual mileage is paid and the post holder is expected to provide a car suitable for duty. Child Abuse Investigation Unit officers work in converted police houses situated in various parts of the county. The post holder will need to have a thorough knowledge of child protection procedures including joint agency working
i.e. "Working together", "The Blue Book" and the Childrens Act 1989, and be a substantive Sergeant. Need to possess good stress management skills and be able to work under considerable pressure. Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with people at all levels is essential, as is a caring disposition and understanding of others.
Behaviours:
Analyse Critically (Level 2)
I ensure that the best available evidence from a wide range of sources is taken into account when making decisions. I think about different perspectives and motivations when reviewing information and how this may influence key points. I ask incisive questions to test out facts and assumptions, questioning and challenging the information provided when necessary. I understand when to balance decisive action with due consideration. I recognise patterns, themes and connections between several and diverse sources of information and the best available evidence. I identify when I need to take action on the basis of limited information and think about how to mitigate the risks in doing so. I challenge others to ensure that decisions are made in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.
Collaborative (Level 2)
I manage relationships and partnerships for the long term, sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and those the police serve. I understand the local partnership context, helping me to use a range of tailored steps to build support. I work with our partners to decide who is best placed to take the lead on initiatives. I try to anticipate our partners' needs and take action to address these. I do not make assumptions. I check that our partners are getting what they need from the police service. I build commitment from others (including the public) to work together to deliver agreed outcomes.
Deliver, Support and Inspire (Level 2)
I give clear direction and expectations, helping others to understand how their work operates in the wider context. I identify barriers that inhibit performance in my teams and take steps to resolve these, enabling others to perform. I lead the public and / or colleagues, where appropriate, during incidents or through the provision of advice and support. I ensure the efficient use of resources to create the most value and the right impact within my areas. I keep track of changes in the external environment, anticipating both the short and long term potential implications for the Police Service. I motivate and inspire others to achieve their best.
Emotionally Aware (Level 2)
I consider the perspectives of people from a wide range of backgrounds before taking action. I adapt my style and approach according to the needs of the people I am working with, using my own behaviour to achieve the best outcome. I promote a culture that values diversity and encourages challenge. I encourage reflective practice among others and take the time to support others to understand reactions and behaviours. I take responsibility for helping to ensuring the emotional well being of those in my teams. I take the responsibility to deal with any inappropriate behaviours.
Innovative and Open-minded (Level 2)
I explore a number of different sources of information and use a variety of tools when faced with a problem and look for good practice that is not always from policing. I am able to spot opportunities or threats which may influence how I go about my job in the future by using knowledge of trends, new thinking about policing and changing demographics in the population. I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I encourage others to be creative and take appropriate risks. I share my explorations and understanding of the wider internal and external environment.
Take Ownership (Level 2)
I proactively create a culture of ownership within my areas of work and support others to display personal responsibility. I take responsibility for making improvements to policies, processes and procedures, actively encouraging others to contribute their ideas. I am accountable for the decisions my team make and the activities within our teams. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and for correcting any problems both promptly and openly. I actively encourage and support learning within my teams and colleagues.
Values:
Impartiality (Accredited)
I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.
Integrity (Accredited)
I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.
Public Service (Accredited)
I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.
Transparency (Accredited)
I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.
Technical skills:
Crime Investigation (Level 5)
Supervises and co-ordinates the activities of other investigators providing advice and guidance on the whole range of investigation techniques, policies and procedures. Acts as a Case Review Officer. Pro-actively uses information gained form external agencies and the intelligence unit. Undertakes detailed and comprehensive case investigations.
Drugs (Level 3)
Has a basic understanding of the various types of drugs and paraphernalia used to administer and manufacture illegal substances. Has a good understanding of drugs related offences, relevant legislation, the evidence required to support further investigation and an awareness of the support and assistance that other investigative officers and agencies can offer.
ECYPM (Level 5)
Proactive responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people. Establishes a professional rapport and trusting relationship with children and young people, their families and carers. Knows and understands the role of other agencies local procedures in children's services and where to get advice and support. Makes considered judgements about how to act to safeguard and promote child and young persons welfare. Has the confidence to challenge your own and others' practice.
Forensic - Crime Scene Management (Level 3)
Has a working knowledge of the preservation of evidence and practical experience in identifying scene parameters and securing crime scenes. Aware of the method of establishing and clearing a common approach path. Possesses a basic knowledge of the concepts of forensic evidence and the technical aids available within Force. Understands issues relating to scene contamination and can take practical steps to avoid it.
Health & Safety (Level 4)
Has received Supervisor training and takes responsibility for the safety of directly subordinate staff and visitors. Understands the procedures in place for the safe storage of hazardous substances, fire precautions and evacuation. Resolves hazards or problems identified within roles or work environments. Undertakes skills passport assessments for new and existing staff. Re-assesses passport as and when new equipment/technology is introduced.Completes annual reviews of skills passports, training needs analysis.
Incident / Scene Management & Contl (Level 4)
Maintains an overview of the incident. Sets up appropriate and effective cordons. Following assessment of the situation gives estimates for additional personnel requirements and specialist teams. Uses knowledge and assessment of staff capabilities to effectively deploy attending personnel and maintains awareness of the location of all deployed resources. Aware of the need to balance the gathering of evidence with the need to resolve the incident. Aware of Area contingency plans and able to initiate further action.
Information Management & Technology (Level 4)
Can conduct basic computer searches and can correctly interpret data generated. Can create and amend records, according to role requirement. Knows established rules and protocols. Understands impact of data quality, and is self-monitoring on data quality issues.
Intelligence Gathering & Analysis (Level 4)
Able to analyse basic intelligence submitted and/or make decisions about whether it should be followed up or not. If further research is necessary, be able to carry out that task or delegate to another officer. If required, be able to put together basic information packages for others based on the intelligence gained.
Interviewing - General (Level 4)
Has received some training in reliable interviewing techniques and is able to apply these techniques fairly, consistently and to good effect. Identifies the key issues for examination and tests these using open and probing questions. Identifies weaknesses and inconsistencies in the account and seeks clarification. Keeps good written records of the interview for future
Interviewing - Suspects (Level 4)
Experienced in using the PEACE model. Able to manage an encounter with a solicitor practising 'active defence'. Able to effectively apply an up to date and in depth knowledge of legislation relevant to interviewing and fully understands the implications of S76/78 PACE.
Interviewing - Witnesses (Level 4)
Able to interview vulnerable victims and child witnesses. Considers the best environment in which to interview and consults with outside agencies. Able to effectively conduct video interviews.
Knowledge of Legislation and Policy (Level 5)
Has a thorough understanding of the responsibilities of the police and all other participants in the legal process. Has overall responsibility for advising other officers on the application of all legislation, policy and procedure relevant to the current role. Confident in the application of the complaints procedure and policy, able to initiate an investigation, where this is warranted, and secure relevant evidence.
Mgmt of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 5)
Has sufficient understanding of the NPCC records management policies be able to offer appropriate guidance and support to staff. Is able to identify the appropriate MOPI group for any record with a policing purpose and ensure that all policing records within the team are retained, reviewed or destroyed in line with the MOPI codes of practice. Quality assures staff to ensure a full understanding and compliance with the APP for Information Management (incorporating MOPI guidance), highlighting failings and taking appropriate action as required. Ensures training and / or refresher training is provided and completed. Ensures that systems are correctly linked together to ensure effective management and recording of information across systems. Appropriately reviews digital information held on system(s) and physical records in storage to ensure that they are retained only where there is a policing purpose. Complies with relevant policies and procedures in respect of prioritisation, sanitisation, dissemination, sharing, relevancy, accuracy, adequacy and timeliness.
Risk Management (Level 4)
Able to anticipate risks likely to affect the team's ability to execute their function, in terms of likelihood and impact, and assesses how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their team and their objectives. Has an understanding of pathways to alert local managers to flawed or ineffective operational control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.
Search (Level 4)
Has a high level of search awareness and handling of exhibits seized. Is able to co-ordinate searches and collate associated items seized and ensure their integrity, security and continuity for any future court case.
Victim Support (Level 4)
Good working knowledge of victim support techniques both internal and external to the organisation. Able to support victims and other interested parties during an investigation which may lead to a court case. Able to act as an advisor for other staff on support services available.
Vulnerable Victims (Level 4)
Has a sound understanding of the legal and procedural issues surrounding all vulnerable victims and is able to advise others. Familiar with procedure with regard to children taken into police protection. Has knowledge of the work of officers of the Social Services, NSPCC and other voluntary agencies in providing on-going support and care for all victims. Demonstrates the ability to successfully gain evidence and bring a case to Court.