Pomona House: Putting victims first

Pomona House: Putting victims first

In her latest blog, Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez shares why the opening of Pomona House marks an important step forward for victims and witnesses, and how continued investment is helping put victims at the heart of the criminal justice system.

Last week I had the privilege of officially opening Pomona House in Torquay alongside Chief Constable James Vaughan, local partners and guests from across South Devon.

What matters most about Pomona House is what it represents. For the victims and witnesses who will walk through its doors, it is a place designed to provide safety, dignity and support at what may be one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Every day, people across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly find the courage to report crimes including domestic abuse, sexual violence, child abuse and other serious offences. Sharing those experiences can be incredibly traumatic. That's why it is so important that the environment in which victims provide evidence is welcoming, comfortable and designed around their needs.

The new interview suites at Pomona House have been created with exactly that purpose in mind. They provide a discreet, accessible and trauma-informed space where victims and witnesses can speak about their experiences and help investigators secure the evidence needed to bring offenders to justice.

As Police and Crime Commissioner, I am proud that we have invested in this facility. Victims deserve to be treated with compassion and understanding from the moment they come forward, and these new facilities will help ensure they receive the support and dignity they deserve.

But this investment is not just about the people who use the building. It is also about the dedicated officers and staff who work tirelessly to protect some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

The teams based at Pomona House investigate some of the most serious and complex offences. They spend their working lives supporting victims through incredibly difficult circumstances, listening to distressing accounts and helping people begin the journey towards justice and recovery. Their work is challenging, demanding and often emotionally difficult.

I was delighted to see the modern, collaborative environment that has been created for them. Bringing specialist teams together under one roof will help them share expertise, work more effectively and continue delivering victim-centred investigations across South Devon.

The opening of Pomona House is also a reminder that supporting victims goes beyond the police investigation itself.

My office commissions a range of services to help victims cope with and recover from the impact of crime. Information about these services can be accessed through the Victim Care Devon & Cornwall website, which helps people find the right support for their individual needs. Whether someone requires practical advice, emotional support or specialist assistance, we want to ensure help is available when it is needed most.

Facilities such as Pomona House, combined with effective victim support services, help create a system that places victims at its heart.

Pomona House forms part of a wider programme of investment in services for victims and witnesses across Devon and Cornwall. Alongside this new facility in Torquay, I am also investing in a new victims’ centre at Police Headquarters in Exeter, helping to create environments that put victims at the heart of the criminal justice process and provide the best possible support when they need it most.

While there is still more to do, this investment is another important step towards ensuring that everyone who comes forward for help is treated with dignity, respect and understanding.

I look forward to seeing the positive difference Pomona House will make for victims, witnesses and the dedicated professionals who support them for many years to come.