New guidance to strengthen police response to 'honour'-based abuse
New 'honour'-based abuse advice notes published
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We are launching new advice notes to support police officers and staff to better recognise and respond to 'honour'-based abuse (HBA) cases across England and Wales.
'Honour'-based abuse represents one of the most challenging forms of abuse that police encounter. Its hidden nature, deeply rooted in cultural and family contexts, demands sophisticated understanding and specialist approaches from those who respond to and investigate these cases.
Advice notes
The new 'honour'-based abuse guidance has been added to the Major investigation and public protection authorised professional practice (APP). The HBA resources include:
- HBA background notes – helps officers and staff identify potential HBA factors in cases and understand the specific investigative considerations required
- Advice notes for first responders – provide advice for front-line officers and staff attending a report where HBA has been identified as a concern
- Advice notes for investigators – provides practical guidance on the unique nuances and considerations required when investigating HBA cases, helping them navigate the distinctive characteristics that make these investigations particularly complex and challenging
Together, these resources equip officers with the knowledge and tools needed to identify potential HBA cases earlier and respond more effectively to protect victims.
Addressing concerns
The advice notes have been developed in direct response to concerns about the quality of investigations into 'honour'-based abuse, including recommendations from the Tees Valley Inclusion Project Super Complaint submitted in August 2020.
The complaint highlighted significant gaps in police practices and understanding of the risks of HBA, overuse of voluntary suspect interviews, failure to keep victims informed, and lack of cultural awareness that was putting victims at greater risk.
Expert input
The advice notes were developed following extensive stakeholder engagement including National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) working groups, 'honour'-based abuse enforcement groups, and subject matter experts. This targeted approach ensures the content is both accurate and beneficial for officers and staff dealing with these complex cases.
When police fail to recognise HBA signs or understand its specific dynamics, victims suffer devastating consequences ranging from continued abuse and escalating violence to, in extreme cases, loss of life.
These new advice notes provide essential knowledge and tools that police officers, police staff and investigators need to identify potential cases earlier, respond more effectively, and ultimately save lives.
