The Victims’ Code
The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime in England and Wales, commonly known as the Victims' Code, is a statutory document that outlines the services and support victims are entitled to receive from criminal justice agencies, including the police and the Crown Prosecution Service. The latest version of the Victims' Code came into effect on 1 April 2021:
The Code is structured around 12 key rights designed to ensure victims are treated with respect, receive timely information, and have access to appropriate support. These rights include:
To be able to understand and to be understood: Victims have the right to receive information in a way that is easy to understand and to be provided with help to be understood, including access to interpretation and translation services where necessary.
To have the details of the crime recorded without unjustified delay: Victims have the right to have details of the crime recorded by the police as soon as possible after the incident.
To be provided with information when reporting the crime: Victims have the right to be provided with information about what to expect from the criminal justice system when they report a crime.
To be referred to services that support victims and have services and support tailored to your needs: Victims have the right to be offered a referral to victim support services and to have services tailored to their needs.
To be provided with information about compensation: Victims have the right to be informed about how to claim compensation for any loss, damage, or injury caused as a result of the crime.
To be provided with information about the investigation and prosecution: Victims have the right to be provided with updates on their case and to be informed when important decisions are taken.
To make a Victim Personal Statement: Victims have the right to make a statement explaining how the crime has affected them, which will be considered during sentencing.
To be given information about the trial, trial process, and your role as a witness: If the case goes to court, victims have the right to be informed about the trial process and their role within it.
To be given information about the outcome of the case and any appeals: Victims have the right to be informed of the outcome of the case, including any appeals.
To be paid expenses and have property returned: Victims have the right to be reimbursed for expenses incurred as a witness and to have their property returned as soon as possible.
To be given information about the offender following a conviction: Victims have the right to be informed about the offender’s sentence and release, especially in cases involving violence or sexual offences.
To make a complaint about your rights not being met: Victims have the right to make a complaint if they believe their rights under the Code have not been met.
While the Supreme Court rarely deals directly with victims, as it primarily addresses points of law rather than hearing evidence, it remains committed to the principles of the Victims' Code by ensuring transparency and keeping the public informed about the progress and outcomes of cases.
For more detailed information, including guides and resources tailored for different audiences, you can access the full Victims' Code and supporting materials on the official UK government website: GOV.UK
These resources provide comprehensive guidance to help victims understand their rights and the support available to them throughout the criminal justice process.