A NEW initiative by Dorset Police has been met with positive feedback from victims of crime.

The regional force has announced a new contact method for victims of crime using Enhanced Video Response (EVR).

Victims can now opt to speak to a police officer via live video as well as having the option to attend in person.

The new system works by a victim reporting a crime, who will then undertake a risk assessment that will lead to either a virtual or in-person response.

Assistant chief constable Steve Lyne, of Dorset Police, said: “We recognise that society is changing, and victims tell us they want other ways to engage with us. We know that many, prefer the convenience of speaking to us over a video call where they can engage more openly, and they don’t feel anxious at the thought of a police car outside their home address.

“The initiative was trialled over a four-month period during the summer last year and 89 per cent of victims who took part said they would recommend it to others.

“In addition, for incidents managed by our enhanced video response team, we found that the number of crimes resulting in an arrest or formal suspect interview were almost four times higher, with crimes seeing a positive outcome, such as an offender being charged or given a caution, over three times higher.

“The number of victims who withdraw their support for a prosecution also halved resulting in more offenders being brought to justice.”

One victim who chose a video response wrote to Dorset Police saying: “At the time I made this report I was feeling very vulnerable and anxious as I was being stalked.

“I was so anxious that allowing a stranger into my home, even a police officer, was a traumatic option for me.

“The video call facility was the perfect way to actually see the officer without having a stranger in my home.

“The officer was very empathetic and made me feel safe and valued.”

Another said: “Really amazing response.

"I felt heard and the officer really helped me.

"Perfect response.”