Domestic Homicide Reviews: evidence briefing

Annex 3 – Recommendations by Rowlands (2020a)

Overview of the recommendations Rowlands (2020a) formulated in his report that may be useful to consider in the Scottish context of establishing a DHR process.

1. Articulate a Theory of Change to underpin the DHR process

2. Facilitate a dialogue about the multiple, sometimes conflicting purposes of DHRs

3. Develop a set of principles to inform the DHR process, addressing the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders, as well as decision making and conduct

4. Develop a shared set of consistent definitions

5. Ensure that decision-making process concerning DHRs is robust and transparent

6. Enable flexibility in the DHR model (rather than 'one size fits all') depending on the case circumstances

7. Develop a competencies framework for panel members

8. Develop an induction/training programme for multi-agency review panel members

9. Provide opportunities in individual DHRs to reflect on the purposes of DHRs, as well as how multi-agency review panel members will work together

10. Ensure specialist representation from domestic violence and abuse and community services are valued, heard and recompensed

11. Address ethical and methodological challenges in undertaking DHRs

12. Enable the routine collection and analysis of a minimum data set

13. Develop a mechanism to collate emerging learning from across DHRs

14. Enable a national programme to provide technical expertise

15. Establish a regular reporting system, underpinned by the aggregation of case data, learning and recommendations, at a regional and national level

16. Clarify the purpose of publication, with reference to responsibilities, aim(s) and audience(s)

17. Establish a national repository to act as a clearinghouse for all completed DHRs

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