Government plans for a first ever Victims' Law welcomed

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley has welcomed government plans for a first ever Victims' Law.

“I welcome today’s announcement of reforms to better protect and support victims of crime.   All too often within the criminal justice system victims feel like their needs and rights are neglected.   The range of proposals outlined, which create greater transparency and set out clear expectations and accountability for justice agencies, will I hope give victims a greater voice.   

“Any proposals aimed at increasing the number of prosecutions for rape and sexual violence reaching court, I also strongly welcome.  Measures detailed today, such as the roll out of early pre-recorded evidence to spare victims of rape being cross examined, will I hope provide increased confidence to victims and ultimately bring more offenders to justice. As Chairman of Thames Valley’s Criminal Justice Board, the proposed scorecards will help me to scrutinise the work of other agencies and hold all partners to account for delivering on behalf of victims.

“The proposal for a Victims Law presents real opportunity for change and I encourage victims and survivors in the Thames Valley to make their voices heard during this consultation.

“My office will work to ensure that any changes are fully embedded within our victims service delivery in the Thames Valley.  Any victim or witness of crime can access support by contacting Victims First on 0300 1234 148 www.victims-first.org.uk.”

The Ministry of Justice announcement can be found at  Landmark reforms for victims - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)