Overview

This Victims (Bill of Rights) Bill aims to establish a framework of rights for victims of crime in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It creates a Victims’ Regulatory Body to enforce these rights, mandates annual reports on the bill's impact, and requires training for criminal justice staff on the effects of crime on victims.

Description

The bill introduces a “Victims’ Bill of Rights” outlining several key rights for crime victims. These include:

• Information Rights: Access to timely and accurate information from criminal justice agencies, including details about the perpetrator and court proceedings.
• Review of Non-Prosecution Decisions: The right to request a review if the police or Crown Prosecution Service decides not to prosecute.
• Treatment in Court: The right to be treated with dignity and respect, avoid unnecessary delays, and not experience discrimination during court proceedings.
• Support for Vulnerable Witnesses: Children and vulnerable adults will be able to give evidence remotely or from behind screens.
• Safety and Protection: The police must ensure victim safety during proceedings.
• Representation: Access to someone to liaise with agencies on their behalf.
• Data Protection: Protection of personal data to prevent further harm.
• Access to Information: Access to transcripts and electronic evidence, prior to court appearance.
• Compensation and Costs: Access to financial compensation and reimbursement of expenses, and the right to approve or refuse compensation orders.
• Training: Mandatory training for criminal justice professionals on the impact of crime on victims.

A Victims’ Regulatory Body (VRB) will be established to enforce these rights, investigate complaints, and set quality standards for victim services. The VRB can impose fines for non-compliance and order compensation to be paid to victims or a victim's fund.

Government Spending

The bill mandates government spending on establishing and running the VRB, providing training, publishing reports, and potentially providing compensation to victims. Specific figures are not provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

The bill will primarily affect:

• Victims of crime: They will gain legal rights and access to support mechanisms.
• Criminal justice agencies (Police, CPS, Courts): They will have new responsibilities in upholding victims' rights and providing training.
• Victim support services: Their work will be influenced by the new regulatory body and standards.
• Perpetrators of crime: They may face fines if their actions violate the Victims’ Bill of Rights.

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