It is a knock at the door no one ever wants to hear and one police officers never want to do – but have to and it becomes even harder at Christmas.
A South Yorkshire Police Family Liaison Officer (FLO) has shared heartbreaking insight into what it is like to tell a family their loved one has died. PC Brett Small works as a Roads Policing Group Family Liaison Officer (FLO), and supports families who have lost loved ones in crashes.
Now, to highlight the dangers of the #Fatal4 offences – the main factors leading to fatal and serious accidents – PC Small has spoken out about the work he does. It comes as 46 people have lost their lives on the roads of South Yorkshire in 2024.
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He said: “It’s Christmas, you’re on duty and attend a fatal road traffic collision. You know your next steps are delivering the sad news that someone’s loved one has died.
“You know the family will never be the same again, and you know you’ll never be the same again, you’ll never forget this family.”
FLOs are assigned to a victim’s family from the moment a fatality is declared in a crash. They support them through every step; telling them the news, supporting them during the identification process and then the funeral, investigation and court proceedings.
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PC Small has worked as a police officer for seven years, and as a roads policing unit FLO for three years. He added: “No one expects their loved one to die in a collision, and no one expects as their loved one leaves the house that they’re not going to return.
“During my time as a police officer, I have sadly attended many fatalities, including over the festive period. As soon as you realise the severity of a collision, your thoughts immediately go to finding the person’s next of kin and notifying them.
“As you approach the family’s door, often seeing the Christmas lights and decorations, you know this time of year will never be the same for them again. As a FLO, you are assigned to the family and know you’ll be by their side for however long is necessary.
“While it is difficult, I take pride in knowing that during their most difficult time, I can ensure they stay updated and supported throughout.”
South Yorkshire Police went on to say: “The value of a FLO is immeasurable to grieving families and we thank all of our officers and staff for their efforts in supporting our communities.”