The primary purpose of a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) is that of an investigator. Their role is to gather evidence and information from the family to contribute to the investigation, preserve its integrity. The FLO also provides support and information, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, securing confidence and trust of families of victims of crime (primarily homicide), road fatality, mass disaster or other critical incident, ensuring family members are given timely information in accordance with the needs of the investigation.

  • Establish and maintain a supportive and ethical relationship with the family, building trust, in line with local and national guidance to gathering information and evidence.
  • Act as a single point of contact between families and investigation teams when a mass disaster, homicide, suspicious death, or roads policing fatality is involved to enable information to be shared which may assist in the investigation.
  • Collect best evidence to enable identification of a reported missing person (high risk of criminality/vulnerability) or identify the deceased and consider potential future viewing requirements/ post mortem(s) with the family to further the investigation.
  • Provide information regarding additional services available for families, including signposting to support agencies, and explain Criminal Justice and Coronial procedures, so that they can access all available services and support.
  • Update families, in a timely manner, with all relevant information regarding a police investigation, in line with the strategy of the Senior Investigating Officer (SIO), Senior Identification Manager (SIM) or Lead Investigator so that they are informed of progress.
  • Obtain victimology and family personal statements and any other material to enable the gathering of evidence and to support the investigative process.
  • Document any requests and/or complaints made by the family, to be forwarded for the consideration of the Senior Investigating Officer (SIO), Senior Identification Manager (SIM) or Lead Investigator.
  • Record all contact with the family to ensure compliance with the Criminal Procedures and Investigations Act (CPIA) to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
  • Liaise between families and the Coroner, Senior Investigating Officer (SIO), Senior Identification Manager (SIM) or Lead Investigator in relation to requirements under the Human Tissue Act 2004