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Course Content:

This course is an introduction/refresher to the legal framework within which we are operating, the role of the Police, the rights-based laws which apply in all areas, and the specific principles and practices which apply in the ABE/VRI and the courts.

Through DS Sarah Peto, we will learn about the fundamental principles of police investigative interviewing, the tools and techniques which the police are trained to use and why these are important in obtaining evidence from both witnesses and suspects. We will then look at how to apply this information to the work we do, supporting communication.

An overview of police investigative interviews to cover:

• witness and suspects police interviews
• the legislation and guidance
• common pitfalls to be aware of to avoid
• research and best practice

As an NQRI and former Police Officer, Debbie Cummings has gained a valuable and quite unique insight into the dynamics both positive and negative between officers and RI's and the various challenges each can face in this complex field. She notes that the advantages and challenges that she faced when transitioning between the roles were both anticipated and also unexpected. Debbie will provide her thoughts and experiences having been on both sides of the very same coin and how a 'team work' approach could benefit all parties, and ultimately the witness and their evidence.

Other discussions will include:

• Acknowledgement of the different level of experience of officers, and how experiences with the Intermediary Service overall may affect their perceptions either positively or negatively;
• Suggestions on how to begin the interaction between RI and Police as clearly and positively as possible and foster good working relationships and understanding of each role; and 
• Suggestions on ways that an RI can assist Police Officers that are relevant to each witness and case, and that officers do not find too complex. 

Course Aims/Objectives:

Participants will:

1. Understand the police interview process and best practice in using a registered intermediary for vulnerable witnesses
2. Learn about typical Witness Interview Strategy, structure & methods, used by Police in investigative interviewing, using the Achieving Best Evidence Guidance.
3. Consider the use of Visual aids (Drawings, pictures symbols, dolls, figures and props)
4. Understand the differences between competence vs capacity, credibility and fitness to be interviewed
5. Consider Police Pre-Interview Preparation and planning the Interview
6. Consider the Impact of Trauma and negative thought on the Interview Process
7. Learn about Victim/Witness Care Strategy
8. Learn more about suspect interviews and the use of non- registered intermediaries with suspects

Course Method:

The workshop is run in the form of a small group training. The presenters will present information and will invite high levels of participation and sharing of knowledge and ideas. Prepared slides/handouts guide the process rather than impart information.

The following materials are provided:

• Powerpoint presentations
• Guidance for further reading-Bibliography