Operation Bluestone: What support from Avon and Somerset Police looks like

TW: Sexual Violence

Avon and Somerset Police approached the Bristol Tab to raise awareness about Operation Bluestone, which is the police’s new response to incidents of rape and serious sexual offences. We visited Avon and Somerset Police’s interview suites in Bristol and spoke to DC Lottie Netherwood to find out more about Operation Bluestone and how individuals can access support. 

First, we toured their facilities, examining their four interview suites and support areas. To reduce any potential anxiety, the suites feature a living room-inspired layout, creating a familiar environment for individuals to share their experiences. The support areas are available if individuals wish to bring somebody with them to the interview. A supporter cannot speak for an individual, but can act as a friendly face or provide practical help. 

Whilst it is an interview, the initial meeting is more of a ‘conversation’, which allows those affected to speak to a trusted professional who can offer long-term care. During interviews, there is also no obligation to pursue an investigation, and the interview process is consistently tailored to the individual’s wishes. Interviews are usually filmed, yet individuals are entitled to take breaks and lead the conversation. 

When speaking to the staff, they reinforced to us that when people seek their help, it is completely judgment-free. DC Lottie Netherwood stated: “The most important piece of advice I’d give to someone is to come with an open mind to what support we can provide”.  

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Netherwood explained to us that there are never any constraints to accessing support. No matter when the incident happened or the circumstances under which it happened, the actions of the individual are never rebuked, even in situations where illegal substances or alcohol have been consumed. 

It was important to the staff that the process was suspect-focused. Regardless of how much or little evidence people may have, individuals are encouraged to speak openly about their experiences so the police can open as many lines of enquiry as possible. 

Individuals can choose to stop the process at any time, with no obligation to pursue an investigation or take their experience to court. D.C. Lottie Netherwood affirmed: “We follow a person’s wishes on how they would like to progress – and there’s no pressure in any of it”, and that “It is okay to change your mind at any point”.  Additionally, individuals can choose how much they want to engage with the interview and investigation process. There is always the option to pause and re-engage with the process at a later date. 

The police can refer people affected by sexual violence to Independent Sexual Violence Advisors or ISVAs, who can help individuals process their feelings, understand the criminal justice system and refer those who seek their help to additional support services. Alternatively you do not need to contact the police to get in touch with an ISVA. There is also support available from IDVAs, who are professionals that offer assistance to survivors of domestic violence. 

Moreover, if you get into contact with the police in Bristol, they can assist with referral processes. This applies even if you need to relocate out of the city, for example, if you are a student that is returning back home after term time.

If you or anyone you know have been affected by rape or sexual violence, please do not hesitate to get into touch with the police or organisations such as Safelink, The Bridge or Survivor Pathway. 

You can contact Safelink by calling them on 07714 290 011. Safelink are an independent sexual violence support organisation which is available in Somerset and Avon. 

The Bridge is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre who offer medical care, emotional and psychological support and practical help to anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault. They can be contacted on 0117 342 6999.  

Survivor Pathway is an online resource for anyone wanting to know about sexual violence support services in South West England.