Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster has issued an important reminder to victims of crime in the West Midlands.
The PCC has once again called on “the rights and welfare of victims to be at the forefront of the service provided by West Midlands Police and the wider criminal justice system”.
It follows a prompt put out by the Ministry of Justice to remind people of the Victims’ Code – Government legislation that explains the rights that everyone can expect to receive as a victim of crime.
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster said: “I welcome the launch of a Ministry of Justice campaign, to raise awareness of the rights that all victims of crime are entitled to.
“In September 2023, West Midlands Police launched a new Victims Strategy to improve the service it provides to victims of crime and to ensure compliance with the Victims’ Code.
“Bearing in mind that the Victims’ Code has been in existence for 18 years – since 2005 – there is no conceivable excuse that West Midlands Police – or any other criminal justice agency – could have for not being fully compliant and able to evidence compliance with the Victims’ Code.
“The rights and welfare of victims – as set out in the Victims’ Code – must always be at the forefront of the service provided by West Midlands Police and the wider criminal justice system. It is absolutely essential that West Midlands Police and the wider criminal justice system comply with the Victims’ Code at all times. There is no excuse for not doing so.
“I will continue to hold West Midlands Police to account to ensure that it complies with the Victims’ Code and that the rights and welfare of victims are at the forefront of the entire spectrum of the criminal justice system.”
What is the Victims’ Code?
Whoever you are and whatever the crime, you have the right to be informed about the criminal justice process and the support available.
Criminal justice agencies are responsible for making sure that victims receive the rights in the Victims’ Code. You can expect them to tell you about your rights as you go through the criminal justice process.
The criminal justice agencies include:
- The police
- Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
- HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
- Youth Offending Teams
- HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
- British Transport Police (BTP)
If you decide not to report the crime, you’re still able to get help and hear about the Victims’ Code from support services.
For a more thorough breakdown of the Victims’ Code and to get to know your rights as a victim of crime, visit the website here
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