Home visits

Summary

This module provides guidance for management of sexual offenders and violent offenders (MOSOVO) officers on preparing for home visits to registered offenders. It emphasizes the importance of assessing risk, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and managing public safety. Home visits should be conducted regularly, with the frequency tailored to individual offenders rather than dictated solely by risk levels. Officer safety must be prioritized through risk assessments and appropriate planning. The module outlines procedures for conducting visits, including conducting them in pairs, ensuring officer welfare, and the importance of maintaining confidentiality. Additionally, it details protocols for situations where access to an offender’s residence is denied, including the application of warrants for search if necessary. Officers are expected to document their findings and update relevant systems following visits, ensuring continued coordination with other agencies when necessary.

Key principles

• 1Visit all category 1 registered sexual offenders at their home address.
• 2Home visits are tailored to individual offenders' risk management plans.
• 3All visits must be risk assessed for officer and staff safety.
• 4Visits should be conducted by pairs of officers, one being an accredited MOSOVO manager.
• 5Maintain confidentiality regarding the offender's circumstances during visits.
• 6Document and update records post-visit, indicating any changes in risk.

Defined terms

NPCC

National Police Chiefs' Council

ViSOR

Violent and Sex Offender Register

MOSOVO

Management of Sexual Offenders and Violent Offenders

ARMS

Assessment of Risk Management Status

MAPPA

Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements

RSO

Registered Sexual Offender

SOA 2003

Sex Offenders Act 2003