Commissioner welcomes opportunity for victims to have greater say in criminal justice system

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer has welcomed the launch of the Ministry of Justice’s consultation into The Victims’ Bill, which looks at improving victims’ experiences of the justice system.

The consultation would see victims’ views better represented at regular points during their case enabling the Police, Crown Prosecution Service and courts to be held to account for the service they provide.

Proposals include an explicit requirement for prosecutors to meet the victims of certain crimes before making a charging decision in order to understand the impact the crime has had on the victim.

Increasing the Victim Surcharge, ensuring that criminals contribute more towards crucial victim services is also on the table. It is currently as low as £22 for a conditional discharge, however the proposal is to increase the minimum rate to £100.

John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, said: “Delivering justice for victims of crime is at the heart of my Police and Crime Plan and victims should be at the heart of everything we do in the criminal justice system.

“I welcome the proposals set out and look forward to seeing how they can make a difference for those who have been subjected to crime. Criminals need to take more responsibility for their actions and realise that there are severe consequences that may or may not include a custodial sentence.

“I’d encourage people to give feedback during this consultation before it closes on 3 February 2022. You can help ensure that the best possible service is provided to victims, and help agencies understand where they can make improvements on their service.”

Dominic Raab, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, said: “No victim should feel unsupported. We have a moral duty to do better for victims, but as a practical matter that support will also help bring more criminals to justice and protect the public.

“Our plans will give victims a louder voice, a greater role in the criminal justice system, and make criminals pay more to help victims recover.”

Dame Vera Baird QC, The Victims’ Commissioner for England & Wales said: “The criminal justice system has a key role to play in helping victims recover and rebuild their lives. Yet all too often victims are treated as an afterthought, with their needs ignored and neglected.

“The government’s Victims’ Law represents a once in a generation opportunity to drive real culture change, requiring agencies to see, hear and help victims – if necessary, with real consequences if this does not happen. I welcome the commitments outlined today and I look forward to working with government to make this a reality.

“We know that we must drastically improve how this country polices and prosecutes rape. The national rollout of section 28 will mark a huge leap in the right direction, helping to reduce unnecessary stress and trauma for victims. This work has my full support.”

The consultation is open to everyone. But views are particularly sought of victims of crime, organisations representing victims, the police, criminal justice practitioners, service providers, health care professionals, Police and Crime Commissioners, local authorities and community safety partnerships.

It asks questions across five key issues, focusing on: 

• What victims should expect 
• Performance and accountability 
• The Victim Surcharge 
• Community-based support services 
• Improved advocacy support 

You can feedback your views here:

https://consult.justice.gov.uk/victim-policy/delivering-justice-for-victims/ 

Pictured - John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire.