A report setting out the findings from an inspection of how well the police, the Crown Prosecution Service and the Probation Service support victims of crime was published on 19 December.  The report entitled, ‘Meeting the needs of victims in the criminal justice system’, found that too many victims are not receiving a quality service from criminal justice system.

Katie Kempen, Chief Executive at the charity Victim Support, said:

“This report lays bare the reality that too many victims are being failed by the criminal justice system. Whilst there are some examples of good practice, they come amidst widespread failures to deliver victims’ rights and meet their needs after crime. Time and again victims aren’t being referred to vital support services, given the chance to make a Victim Personal Statement, or updated about their case. This isn’t good enough. Criminal justice agencies – including the police – must be held to account for the service they deliver to victims. We urge the government to use the Victim and Prisoners Bill to strengthen victims’ rights and make sure that they are monitored and enforced.”