Borders Investigation Unit DS

Job title: Borders Investigation Unit DS
Grade: Sergeant
Role code: PCI048 
Status: Police
Home Office code: Operational Limited Duties
Category: O

Main purpose of the role:

Manage a team of investigators within Kent Special Branch (SB), acting as deputy to DI SB Investigations Unit, including managing all aspects of Counter Terrorism (CT), Domestic Extremism and Espionage investigations for the force, targeting serious organised crime at Kent Frontiers, supporting the National CT Network reacting when required to Counter Terrorism & Domestic Extremism investigations across the region, ensuring full compliance with priorities, aims and objectives set by the Head of Special Branch.

Main responsibilities:

• Under the management of the Counter Terrorism Senior Investigating Officer for Terrorist Investigations within the Kent Force area, manage a team of Detective constables within the Special Branch Investigations Unit, in support of the CT Network, in order to provide clear direction and leadership and ensure the effective investigation of all alleged terrorist activity.
• Support the Senior Investigating Officer for Intelligence Lead investigations of subjects engaged in organised criminality, setting the parameters, policy and direction of an enquiry.
• Provide the lead Kent Police investigative response to Frontier Organised Crime in line with local, regional and national control strategies.
• Maintain an effective network of investigation capabilities that add value to Frontier Organised Crime response, liaising directly with Essex/ Kent Serious Crime Directorate, National Crime Agency, UK Border Agency Crime Directorate and other law enforcement bodies responsible for trans-frontier criminality.
• Assist with the co-ordination of the Force Counter Terrorist (CT) contingency response in respect of initial investigation and provide support to the CT Network arrangements for Counter Terrorist - Police Operations Room, in order to ensure that an effective and efficient response to these activities is provided by the force.
• Support the Detective Inspector SB Investigations, managing all aspects of Unit investigations, maintaining the integrity and standards of case investigation, ensuring high standards of productivity and oversee the activities of all team members in completing all necessary inquiries.
• Ensure the delivery of team objectives with those of other KPM teams and external agencies by participating in working groups and meetings, undertaking research into specific areas and formulating plans to ensure an effective team response to current and future of problem areas.
• Manage and motivate team and individual performance, providing direction and leadership, participating in recruitment and selection, undertaking staff appraisals, addressing welfare, capability and discipline issues, advising on personal development, training and coaching, including the quality assurance, dip testing, assessment, allocation and throughput of work to enhance individual and team competencies, in order to maximise performance from individuals, enable a consistent high quality performance and ensure that a professional and efficient service is provided at all times.
• Be available for on-call responsibilities for Special Branch and Frontier Policing along with the on-call cadre requirements of the force.

December 2011, Amended May 2020

Vetting level:

Security Check (SC)

Necessary experience:

This role is designated as a Detective role. The role requires previous practical experience of undertaking investigations following accreditation at PIP level 1 and has a requirement to work towards and achieve successful accreditation to PIP level 2. Once PIP 2 accreditation has been achieved they will be expected to maintain their Detective accreditation and personal continuing professional development by recording evidence of recent experience of supervising crime investigations.

Behaviours:

We Analyse Critically (Level 2)

I help people be more effective by sharing the best available information and professional knowledge from diverse sources. I ask incisive questions to test assumptions and separate opinion from fact. I recognise when to take decisive action with incomplete information and plan for contingencies. I draw effective conclusions from diverse sources of information and evidence and apply these to deliver results. I assess options to make the best use of resources available, applying business and financial acumen to deliver best results.

We Collaborate (Level 2)

I create a work environment that combines diverse styles, backgrounds and experiences to get better results. I build strong relationships across a broad range of stakeholders, including colleagues, partners and communities, and use these connections to accomplish goals. I work with partners to decide clear roles appropriate to each partner's remit. I include others in my thinking and understand their priorities to make collaboration more effective. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and the people we serve. I manage long-term partnerships sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions.

We Support & Inspire (Level 2)

I support others to understand their aims and wider organisational goals so they can work more effectively. I help others understand organisational changes and help them adapt to and adopt these to deliver better results. I manage resources efficiently to create the most value and to deliver the right impact in my areas. I take time to understand and provide the support people need to work at their best. I show support that helps people feel safe and valued in raising concerns. I create opportunities to support the professional development of others through knowledge sharing, coaching, mentoring and feedback.

We Take Ownership (Level 2)

I delegate appropriately by giving clear direction that recognises people's strengths and potential to achieve more. I monitor progress of my team and work to ensure deadlines are met and my team are clear on their objectives. I take ownership of individual and team performance, not leaving it to others to address problems. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and dealing with any problems both promptly and openly. I am proactive in supporting actions that tackle the bias or prejudice that may be experienced by some groups of people.

We are Emotionally Aware (Level 2)

I help other people learn from their experiences and emotional responses to support and improve their performance. I monitor the wellbeing of others, taking responsibility to ensure appropriate support is provided to help colleagues stay at their best, without stigma or judgement. I provide others with confidence by staying focused and composed in stressful situations. I recognise when my colleagues are affected by the demands, stresses and traumas that can exist in policing, and support them however I can. I role model reflecting on my own emotions to promote an open environment to discuss concerns. I role model effective communication, taking into account the needs of others. I promote a culture that values understanding difference and encourages speaking up.

We are Innovative & Open-minded (Level 2)

I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I look for good practice that is not always from policing and consider how I apply it in my role. I provide space and encouragement to help others stand back and review their objectives and approach. This helps them to adopt fresh perspectives and identify improvements. I anticipate future challenges and changes by using my knowledge of trends within and outside policing. I generate creative ways to harness opportunities or meet challenges that arise from changing trends in
policing.

Values:

Courage (accredited)

This means making, communicating and being accountable for decisions, and standing against anything that could bring our profession into disrepute. When we are motivated by courage, we actively uphold the ethical standards of the police service so that we do the right thing even when the circumstances are difficult. We set good examples, challenge unprofessional behaviour and all forms of prejudice and discriminatory behaviour, and any activity which undermines the impartiality of policing. We build and maintain the confidence of the public, our colleagues and partners through the way we conduct ourselves. We maintain professional boundaries with those we serve and work with to help protect ourselves and those around us. We are open about what we have done and why and keep our promises so we can be relied on when needed. We support an environment where ethical issues or unprofessional actions can be raised, questioned, challenged, reported and addressed. We are honest and open in our interactions and decision making. We have the courage to respond to criticism with professionalism. Examples of courage We act with courage when we: Do the right thing, even when it feels difficult Act as role models to encourage professional and ethical behaviour in others Challenge behaviours, language and attitudes that undermine our profession and support others to do the same Stand up against discrimination, prejudice and hate in all its forms Engage in difficult conversations when we hear or see unprofessional behaviour Address incidents of unprofessional conduct and take appropriate action Are open and responsive to scrutiny and challenge Are honest and truthful, giving accurate representations of our actions and records.

Public service (accredited)

When we are motivated by public service, we respect the authority and influence afforded to us by our role in society and the responsibility we have in using our policing powers. We apply those powers lawfully, proportionately and when necessary. As we strive to help deliver good outcomes for the public we serve, we seek to find opportunities to learn and improve ourselves as professionals. We reflect on our actions and decisions to see what could be changed to improve the service we offer the public. We have a responsibility to ensure that we act in the best interest of society as a whole. Improving the safety and wellbeing of the public underpins all that we do. We respond to different communities, taking into account their history and experiences including trauma and adversity. Examples of public service We provide public service when we: Act in the interests of the public, first and foremost Are open and honest about our knowledge and experience with those we serve, even when it can be uncomfortable Act in ways that give others the confidence to share experiences and ideas that can improve outcomes for the public Seek to understand and address the needs and concerns of all our different communities Seek constructive feedback from a wide variety of people, avoiding being defensive Reflect on and understand our own strengths and areas for development and take responsibility for our own learning to address gaps and improve our service to the public.

Respect & Empathy (accredited)

This means encouraging, listening to and understanding the views of others, and seeking to recognise and respond to the physical, mental and emotional challenges that we and other people may face. When we are motivated by respect and empathy, we ensure people feel valued and listened to. We treat them with patience and courtesy where possible, recognising that sometimes we may need to prioritise safety and security. We give them opportunities to share their views and take these views into account. We seek to understand other people's perspectives and recognise they can differ from our own. We engage with people who have a wide range of experiences and needs and provide a service that takes into account each individual's unique circumstances. We ensure everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, is treated equally and fairly, recognising the need to tailor our responses to individual needs to ensure we are being fair and respectful. We understand and recognise that people may respond differently to the same situation. We are careful to recognise and manage our biases, so they do not stop us from engaging with people with different needs and experiences equally and fairly. Examples of respect and empathy We show respect and empathy when we: Treat everyone with dignity and respect, even in challenging circumstances Give people an equal opportunity to share their views and take these into account Recognise and manage our biases to ensure we make fair and objective decisions Take action to understand and appreciate other people's experiences, values and beliefs and how they differ from our own Promote equality and celebrate difference Respond fairly, impartially and with sensitivity to people's needs.

Technical skills:

Anti-terrorism (Level 4)

Up to date knowledge of current political situation in relation to terrorism. Demonstrates an understanding of the Security Alert Status Levels and relevant policies and procedures. Analyses information submitted and/or makes decisions regarding the next course of action. If further research is necessary, undertakes that task or delegates to another officer. Able to put together basic information packages for other departments based on the information obtained.

Crime Investigation (Level 5)

Supervises and co-ordinates the activities of other investigators providing advice and guidance on the whole range of investigation techniques, policies and procedures. Acts as a Case Review Officer. Pro-actively uses information gained form external agencies and the intelligence unit. Undertakes detailed and comprehensive case investigations.

ECYPM (Level 4)

Develops appropriate professional relationships with children and young people. Has an awareness and basic knowledge, where appropriate, of the most current legislation. Has the confidence to actively represent the child or young person and his or her rights. Understands the necessity of information sharing within the context of children and young people's wellbeing and safety. Understands the different forms and extent of abuse and their impact on children's development. Able to recognise when a child or young person is in danger or at risk of harm, and take action to protect them. Knows when and how to discuss concerns with parents and carers. Understands the roles of other agencies, local procedures on child protection and variations in use of terminology.

Health & Safety (Level 4)

Has received Supervisor training and takes responsibility for the safety of directly subordinate staff and visitors. Understands the procedures in place for the safe storage of hazardous substances, fire precautions and evacuation. Resolves hazards or problems identified within roles or work environments. Undertakes skills passport assessments for new and existing staff. Re-assesses passport as and when new equipment /technology is introduced.Completes annual reviews of skills passports, training needs analysis.

Informant Handling (Level 3)

Up to date knowledge of informant handling policy and relevant best practice sufficient to the current role. Able to recognise possible sources of recruitment and liaise with the appropriate KPM Team.

Information Management & Technology (Level 4)

Can conduct basic computer searches and can correctly interpret data generated. Can create and amend records, according to role requirement. Knows established rules and protocols. Understands impact of data quality, and is self-monitoring on data quality issues.

Intelligence Gathering & Analysis (Level 5)

Has a good working knowledge of the intelligence function as a whole. Able to undertake intelligence gathering and analysis in conjunction with other organisations, generally involving more complex situations and/or level 2 targets and/or supervises others who are analysing and gathering intelligence. Able to make decisions regarding the allocation of information received and when packages are put together, to make decisions as to their level of priority

Interviewing - General (Level 4)

Has received some training in reliable interviewing techniques and is able to apply these techniques fairly, consistently and to good effect. Identifies the key issues for examination and tests these using open and probing questions. Identifies weaknesses and inconsistencies in the account and seeks clarification. Keeps good written records of the interview for future

Interviewing - Suspects (Level 5)

Has successfully completed an advanced interviewers course and is able to effectively demonstrate the skills and abilities learned. Shows an awareness of how personality affects the inter-action of communication between people and has a basic understanding in the psychological analysis of conversation.

Interviewing - Witnesses (Level 3)

Demonstrates the skills contained within the Police PEACE course which incorporates cognitive interviewing. Shows use of this style of interviewing and can apply it operationally giving consideration to identification and procedural issues. Successfully undertakes initial telephone investigation of crime.

Knowledge of Legislation and Policy (Level 4)

Has a thorough understanding of all legislation, policy and procedure relevant to the current role. Able to apply this and offer advice to colleagues as necessary.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 5)

Has sufficient understanding of the NPCC records management policies be able to offer appropriate guidance and support to staff. Is able to identify the appropriate MOPI group for any record with a policing purpose and ensure that all policing records within the team are retained, reviewed or destroyed in line with the MOPI codes of practice. Quality assures staff to ensure a full understanding and compliance with the APP for Information Management (incorporating MOPI guidance), highlighting failings and taking appropriate action as required. Ensures training and / or refresher training is provided and completed. Ensures that systems are correctly linked together to ensure effective management and recording of information across systems. Appropriately reviews digital information held on system(s) and physical records in storage to ensure that they are retained only where there is a policing purpose. Complies with relevant policies and procedures in respect of prioritisation, sanitisation, dissemination,
sharing, relevancy, accuracy, adequacy and timeliness.

Risk Management (Level 4)

Able to anticipate risks likely to affect the team's ability to execute their function, in terms of likelihood and impact, and assesses how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their team and their objectives. Has an understanding of pathways to alert local managers to flawed or ineffective operational control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.

Surveillance - Equipment (Level 4)

Has a basic understanding of what surveillance equipment is available and is able to demonstrate a good working knowledge of the equipment that they have used. And have a good working knowledge for the acquisition and use of CCTV both in relation to police operations and in public and private systems, and demonstrates the ability to use these in practical situations.

Target Surveillance (Level 3)

Has a good general awareness of the work of the target referral teams, understands the quality requirements of cases to be referred to these specialist teams and what needs to be done to put together target packages.

National Occupational Standards:

AA1 (Level Accredited)

Promote equality and value diversity.