A SEXUAL offences unit has smashed rape conviction targets to become the best performing team within the Met.

Lewisham police's Project Sapphire squad achieved a 50.8 per cent judicial disposal (convictions and clear-ups) rate for rape between April 2003 and March 2004.

The figure more than double the Met's 25 per cent target easily puts the 13-member team at the top of the league.

Detective Sergeant Nina Luxford, who heads the team, says the unit's success is down to the rapport officers build up with victims.

She said: "The support we give victims is exceptionally high. We are also very firm in our approach to offenders and act very swiftly."

Established in October last year, the unit has its own lounge where victims can be interviewed without feeling they are inside a police building.

And victims are made to feel more conversational through use of a discreet video camera instead of the traditional notepad.

PC John Daly, one of five officers on the team trained in sexual offences investigative techniques (SOIT), says the perception of what makes a good interviewer for women victims has also shifted.

He said: "Five years ago, it was extremely rare to find male SOIT officers. But it's about breaking down the barrier of police stereotype. We let the victim know we won't be shocked no matter what they say.

"We also constantly explain all the procedures. When dealing with someone in quite a severe state of distress, they might not understand why six months down the line a particular mouth swab may be the crucial piece of evidence. We try to be honest and open throughout."

Call the Project Sapphire team on 020 8284 8300. Alternatively, call The Haven at King's College Hospital for medical support and counselling on 020 7346 1599 from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and 020 7737 4000 at all other times.