Government measures to cement victims’ voices at the heart of the justice system have been welcomed by Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion.
The Bill will put the principles of the Victims’ Code on a statutory footing meaning victims must be kept informed by a police officer during their case and can challenge decisions which directly impact them.
PCC John Campion said: “I fully back the landmark Victims and Prisoners Bill introduced to fundamentally transform the experience of victims of crime by putting them front and centre of the criminal justice system.
“As PCC, I will continue to support West Mercia Police with the resources it needs to ensure victims are regularly updated through their case and given the support they need to cope and recover.
“This is non-negotiable and while I am reassured that the majority of the force is focused on the needs of victims, I will support and challenge the Chief Constable to ensure the Victims’ Code is followed at all times.”
The Bill also introduces a statutory duty on PCCs, and local authorities in England to work together when commissioning support services for victims of sexual violence, domestic abuse and serious violence.
PCC added: “I play a central role in monitoring performance in West Mercia by chairing our Local Criminal Justice Boards and I am also responsible for facilitating partnership conversations. This Bill will support my work to promote partnership work to drive forward positive change in West Mercia.”
