Justice secretary David Gauke unveils new Strategy for VIctims

Today the Justice Secretary unveiled the first ever cross-government Victims Strategy, ensuring victims of crime receive the care, support and justice they deserve.

 

Key facts: The Victims Strategy will:

·         Serve as the next step in the delivery of manifesto commitments including enshrining victims’ rights in law for the very first time and establishing an Independent Public Advocate to help bereaved families following a disaster.

·         Review the entire Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme to consider how to improve access to compensation and better serve victims – especially victims of child sexual abuse and terrorism.  

·         Improve communication and support for victims during the parole process. We will simplify the Victim Contact Scheme and improve the quality of communication, allow Victim Personal Statements at parole hearings and roll out revised training for Victim Liaison Officers.

 

Why this matters: Nothing can take away the distress and trauma of being a victim of crime, but ensuring people get the support they need as they rebuild their lives is fundamental to a caring society.

Commenting on the importance of this work, Prime Minister Theresa May said:

"Nothing can take away the distress and trauma of being a victim of crime, but ensuring people get the support they need as they rebuild their lives is vital. How we support victims is fundamental to a caring society, and in recognition of that we are taking steps to enshrine their rights in law for the very first time. 

The duty of a government is to keep people safe, but it is not enough to simply bring offenders to court. Victims need to know they are protected and listened to, and we will continue to work with charities and support groups to improve their experience."

Justice Secretary David Gauke added:

"Many of us will be lucky enough to not have to encounter the justice system as a victim of crime - but those who do must not also become a victim of the process. 

We will enshrine victims’ entitlements in law by beginning a consultation early next year, and otherwise seek to boost the Victims’ Code. 

This strategy addresses the changing nature of crime, and sets out the support victims should receive at every stage of their journey through the justice system - from providing statements to police, appearing in court or in front of the Parole Board, and every step in between."

More information is available on the government website here.

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