Questions answered in this file

What is a trauma-informed interview?

One that recognises recalling a violent death can be distressing, explains the process and lets the person control pace, breaks and boundaries.

Does trauma-informed mean avoiding difficult questions?

No. Difficult questions are still asked, plainly and respectfully, with the reason explained so the person can choose how to answer.

Can I set limits on what is published about my loved one?

Yes. Families set the boundaries on what is shared about the victim, and those boundaries are recorded so they are honoured.

Are interviews edited before publication?

Edits for length must not change meaning, quotations are checked against the recording and accounts are never merged to create a neater story.

How can I be interviewed about a cold case?

Contact the newsroom with the person's name, agency and the records you hold, and the request will be read and answered.