Thames Valley Police has launched its Rapid Video Response (RVR) service force-wide to improve outcomes and support for victims of domestic abuse. The service was rolled out on 27th April, following a successful pilot in Oxfordshire and subsequent rollouts across Buckinghamshire, Milton Keynes, and East and West Berkshire. The RVR service provides an immediate, optional video call with a frontline officer for victims reporting non-emergency domestic abuse incidents. This offers a faster and more flexible alternative to traditional responses, enabling officers to engage with victims sooner and more effectively. The service is particularly beneficial for victims who may be unable to attend a police station, fear reprisals, or feel anxious about a physical police presence. By offering video contact, RVR ensures victims can access help in a way that suits their circumstances. The service has been used to respond to a wide range of incidents, including: Assaults Sexual offences Harassment Stalking Coercive or controlling behaviour Malicious communications Computer misuse Breaches of bail or court orders Since launching on 1 December, the RVR team has delivered strong results, with victims connected to an officer more than nine times faster compared to traditional deployment methods. Feedback from victims has been overwhelmingly positive, with 90% of respondents to post-call surveys reporting they were completely or very satisfied with the service. Detective Superintendent Holly Stockwell, Head of Domestic Abuse and Stalking, commented: Domestic abuse can be incredibly difficult to report, and we know that the first interaction with police can shape a victim’s willingness to engage with us going forward. Rapid Video Response allows us to offer an immediate, compassionate and flexible option, helping us safeguard sooner and capture vital evidence at the earliest opportunity. Detective Superintendent Michael Bettington, Assessment and Investigation Unit Crime Manager, added: The force-wide rollout of Rapid Video Response is a significant step forward in how we respond to domestic abuse. By connecting victims with an officer much faster, we are delivering a more efficient and effective service. Thames Valley Police encourages anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse to report it. If you are in immediate danger and you can, please call 999. Alternatively, if you wish to report an incident that has happened, then please call 101. Source: Thames Valley Police Post navigation Operation Cuts £3.2m Retail Crime Two Charged Over Land Rover Thefts