Assessing victim risk in cases of violent crime. Issue 4 (12th October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Khan, Roxanne; Willan, Victoria J; Lowe, Michelle; Robinson, Phaedra; Brooks, Matthew; Irving, May; Stokes, Rachel; Graham-Kevan, Nicola; Karwacka, Marta; Bryce, Jo
• Is Part Of: Safer communities. Volume 14:Issue 4(2015)
• Page Start: 203
• Page End: 211
• Publication Date: 2015-10-12
• Subjects: Police -- Domestic violence -- MARACs -- Risk assessment -- Victims -- Victim Support; Crime prevention -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 364.40941
• DOI: 10.1108/SC-05-2015-0020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-8043

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – There is a body of evidence that suggests a range of psychosocial characteristics demarcate certain adults to be at an elevated risk for victimisation. The purpose of this paper is to examine consistency between one police force, and a corresponding Victim Support service based in England, in their assessment of level of risk faced by victims of violent crime. Design/methodology/approach: – This study explored matched data on 869 adult victims of violent crime gathered from these two key services in Preston, namely, Lancashire Constabulary and Victim Support, from which a sub-group of comparable "domestic violence" cases ( n =211) were selected for further examination. Findings: – Data analyses revealed methodological inconsistencies in the assessment of victimisation resulting in discrepancies for recorded levels of risk in domestic violence cases across these two agencies. Practical implications: – These findings provide a compelling argument for developing a more uniformed approach to victim assessment and indicate a significant training need. Originality/value: – This paper highlights areas of good practice and forwards several recommendations for improved practice that emphasises the integration of empirical research conducted by psychologists to boost the validity and reliability of risk assessment approaches and tools used.