GMP showcases ongoing transformation of response to rape and other sexual offences

Ahead of today’s roll out of the National Operating Model, safeguarding minister, Sarah Dines MP visited the force’s Forensic Services Branch, and Public Protection and Serious Crime Division to see and hear, first hand, how the operational principles are being adopted by GMP.

The force was amongst the first on board and, under the Greater Manchester Sexual Violence Harm Reduction Partnership, GMP and key partner agencies are continuing implementation of improvements to ensure investigations are victim-centred, suspect-focussed, and context led.

Though this work is ongoing, data from the 12 months to the end of June 2023 shows early signs of progress – with a 4.2% increase in recording and a 51% increase in summons/ charges – equating to approximately one in 16.

Head of Public Protection, Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr said: “GMP became an Operation Soteria Bluestone force because we operate under no illusions and recognised that our response to rape and other sexual offences really needed to improve to ensure consistent care for victims and action against offenders. Whilst data shows that we have made initial progress, it doesn’t reflect the hard work of Digital Forensics to ensure victims electronic devices are returned to them as soon as possible or the Sex Offender Management Unit who prevent crimes from being committed by those who are being reintegrated into society. We really care about getting it right for those who have suffered rape and other sexual offences – our commitment to continuous development will hopefully give them the trust and confidence in us to allow us to investigate whilst they access specialist support.”

Kate Green, Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Fire, said: “Rape and other sexual offences are sickening crimes that have such a traumatic impact on victims. It’s clear that improvements to better support victims and bring those responsible to justice had to be made and I’m pleased that GMP has taken leadership in this area in becoming one of the first forces in the country to adopt Operation Soteria Bluestone. Early improvements are really encouraging and this supports a whole host of work being done to make Greater Manchester a safer place, including our Gender-Based Violence Strategy.”

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]
- We Are Survivors provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.