Overview

This bill aims to establish a framework of rights for victims of crime in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It creates a Victims’ Bill of Rights, a regulatory body to oversee its enforcement, and mandates training for criminal justice staff on the impact of crime on victims.

Description

The bill introduces a comprehensive "Victims' Bill of Rights" outlining various entitlements for crime victims. These include:

• Information Rights: Timely and accurate information from criminal justice agencies, including details about court proceedings and the perpetrator's history.
• Review of Non-Prosecution Decisions: The right to request a review if a case is dropped by police or the Crown Prosecution Service.
• Court Treatment: Ensuring victims are treated with dignity and respect, avoiding unnecessary delays and discrimination.
• Support for Vulnerable Witnesses: Provisions for children and vulnerable adults to testify remotely or from behind screens.
• Representation and Access: Access to representatives to liaise with agencies and to trained intermediaries for young witnesses.
• Data Protection: Protection of victims' personal data from public disclosure if it poses a risk.
• Access to Information: Access to transcripts and evidence (electronic footage) prior to proceedings.
• Compensation and Costs: Access to financial compensation, property restitution, approval rights regarding compensation orders, and reimbursement of expenses.
• Training for Justice Personnel: Mandatory specialist training for judges, barristers, and solicitors on sexual and domestic violence cases, and broader training for criminal justice staff on the impact of crime on victims.

A Victims’ Regulatory Body (VRB) will be established to enforce these rights, investigate complaints, and publish quality standards for victim services. The VRB can impose fines and compensation for non-compliance.

Government Spending

The bill necessitates government spending on establishing and running the VRB, providing training programs, and potentially covering increased compensation payments to victims. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Victims of crime: Directly benefit from enhanced rights and support.
• Criminal justice agencies (police, CPS, courts): Required to implement the new framework and training programs; subject to oversight by the VRB.
• Victim support services: Subject to new quality standards set by the VRB.
• Government: Responsible for funding the initiatives outlined in the bill.

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