October 19

October 19, 2005: New 'Victims' Code'

A new code that will give victims statutory rights for the first time was laid before Parliament today. The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime sets out the services victims can expect to receive from the criminal justice system including:

a right to information about their crime, including arrests and court cases, within a specified timeframe
a dedicated family liaison police officer to help bereaved relatives
clear information from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) on eligibility for compensation
information about Victim Support, and a referral if sought
an enhanced service in cases of vulnerable or intimidated victims
the flexibility to opt out of unwanted services

The Victims' Code will come into full force in April 2006, when victims will have the right to appeal should they feel that any of the service providers have not met their obligations.

According top Home Office Victims Minister Fiona Mactaggart:

"Many of the services outlined in the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime already exist, but by putting them on a statutory footing for the first time we will ensure that this information is clearly set out and consistently accessible to those who need it.”

Criminal justice bodies, including the Prison Service, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority and all police forces in England and Wales, will be responsible for ensuring that victims of crime and their families receive their entitlements under the Code.

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