A Lewisham area police officer has been recognused for her work helping two victims of a rapist.

Police Constable Hannah Black won the Victim Care Award at the ninth Met Excellence Awards this week. She works in the sexual offences investigation team, in the South East Basic Command Unit covering Lewisham, Greenwich and Bexley.

Nominated for her dedication to protecting vulnerable rape victims, Black went “above and beyond” in providing care for two victims of a degrading stranger rape attack in October 2018. In order to continue her duty of care and always be contactable to the victims, she often made herself available outside of work hours, according to the nomination.

Black reassured the victims throughout the investigation and the court process almost a year later in August 2019. She has since made referrals to support services and assisted in applying for compensation in the hope that this will help them have a more positive future.  

One of the victims was hospitalised on the day she was due to give evidence. Black spent three days in hospital in an isolation room supporting her before she gave her evidence to the court from her hospital bed. 

The defendant was sentenced to a total of 20 years –12 years imprisonment and a further 8 years on extended licence. 

Black told Eastlondonlines: “This award is a great opportunity to show the work of the team behind the case and it’s great to get such a good result for the victims involved.” 

The annual event, was held virtually and recognised a range of dedicated police work across London in a host of categories. 

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, said: “The awards celebrate the extraordinary work of our people, who day in, day out, work incredibly hard, protecting and serving the people of London.”

“It’s about people pushing themselves to be the best in their field; and about those who have gone above and beyond to protect a victim and get the justice they deserve.”