FLO Family Liaison Officer

Question 1

Role of FLO

Answer 1

Involves the day-to-day partnership between the family of the deceased and the Police investigation.
The primary function of an FLO is that of an investigator and not a support person. However the FLO must also offer, facilitate and co-ordinate support that addresses the needs of the family.

Question 2

Family Liaison Plan
-Things to be considered

Answer 2

• Selection of FLO and criteria employed for the selection
• Exit plan for FLO
• Objectives of the Family Liaison
• Assessing the most appropriate methods of conducting interviews with family members
• Information to be released to and withheld from the family
• Requests made by the family which have not been agreed to and the reasons for this
• Complaints made by the family and the OC investigation’s action to progress and resolve the issues raised
• Any member of the family who could be considered a suspect, to enable the OC investigation to determine whether or not this is the case
• Liaison with Victim Support and other support services

Question 3

FLO Action on Appointment

Answer 3

Before meeting the family the FLO must:
- liaise closely with OC investigation regarding parameters of information to be shared with and/or held back from the family
- familiarise themselves with the enquiry
- familiarise themselves with all information established concerning the family
- familiarise themselves with available information and intelligence which could impact on the liaison role, such as previous Police involvement with Victim or family
- establish what contact the family has had with Police since death/incident
- establish what information has been given to the family
- establish what information concerning the incident is already in the public domain

Question 4

Early Issues for Resolution.
During early stages the FLO must:

Answer 4

• Provide immediate appropriate information to the family concerning the death of the Victim and explain to the family what happens next in respect of the body
• Provide family/NOK with ‘when someone dies’ book. There is a 24hour time frame for objection to PM
• Establish from family members any immediate evidence, information or rumours, which they maybe aware of , so this can be passed to OC investigation for urgent attention
• Act quickly and effectively informing the OC investigation without delay should anyone express concern for their personal safety or have been subject to threats or intimidation and require Police protection or assistance
• Give or facilitate initial practical support for members of the family (eg. transport)
• As far as possible, protect the family from unwarranted media intrusion
• Arrange temporary housing when the family home has been deemed a crime scene or a protracted search of the Victims home is anticipated. Victim support should be involved in this process
• Use their knowledge of the criminal justice system and Coroners processes to advise family members, as appropriate
• Where appropriate and on direction of the OC investigation, arrange for the crown solicitor to meet the family to explain decisions taken