Victims’ Code
The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime (the Victims’ Code) is the statutory code that sets out the minimum level of service that victims should receive from the criminal justice system.
The Victims’ Code applies to all criminal justice agencies, including the police, Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Courts Service and the Probation Service. The Code was established by the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 and came into effect in 2006.
The Code sets out what each criminal justice agency must do for victims and the timeframe in which they must do it.
The revised Victims Code of Practice comes into effect on 1 April 2021. It has structured victim entitlements into 12 over-arching rights with further detail, including timescales and other specifics, under each one.
You have the right:
To be able to understand and to be understood
To have the details of the crime recorded without unjustified delay
To be provided with information when reporting the crime
To be referred to services that support victims and have services and support tailored to your needs
To be provided with information about compensation
To be provided with information about the investigation and prosecution
To make a Victim Personal Statement
To be given information about the trial, trial process and your role as a witness
To be given information about the outcome of the case and any appeals
To be given information about the offender following a conviction
To make a complaint about your rights not being met
Further details under each right can be found in the Victims Code of Practice.
The Police and Crime Commissioner
If you feel let down by the police, had great service from them, or just want to share your experience with the Commissioner, please get in touch using the following methods:
- Phone: 01392 225555
- Email: opcc@dc-pcc.gov.uk
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Post: The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Andy Hocking House, Alderson Drive, Exeter EX2 7RP
Click here for more information about making a complaint.