A coproduced pilot prototype model for critical reflection in the investigation of rape and serious sexual offences

Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) investigations present complex forensic and procedural challenges, often contributing to significant case attrition and exposing adherence to assumptions and misconceptions about rape myths, which negatively impact victim-survivors. Police organisations, characterised by risk aversion and a “blame culture,” can inhibit reflective learning. Critical Reflective Practice (CRP) offers a structured, non-punitive mechanism for assessing and improving operational approaches. This chapter examines the application of Hawkins’s (2017) framework to develop CRP for RASSO investigations in one police force, comprising (i) evidence review and stakeholder consultation, (ii) co-production of a working model, and (iii) piloting a prototype CRP model. Aligning with Villado and Arthur’s (2013) description of “After Action Reviews,” the emergent CRP model incorporated structured feedback, review, and strategy development. Enhancements were identified, notably the integration of a timely feedback loop to leverage experiential knowledge and the establishment of “psychological safety” throughout all phases. The enhanced CRP model demonstrated operational relevance for RASSO investigations, offering a constructive approach to improving policing practices while mitigating the detrimental effects of blame-oriented cultures.