Supporting victims and witnesses
Without victims of crime coming forward and witnesses being prepared to give evidence it is difficult for us to secure justice. In around two out of three cases the accused pleads guilty and witnesses are not needed to give evidence in court.
When they are needed, however, London's Crown Prosecution Service - along with the police and the courts - is committed to supporting witnesses and victims to ensure they receive as much assistance as possible.
Witness Care Units
When it is decided to prosecute someone a Witness Care Officer from a unit will contact all the witnesses and victims and carry out a full needs assessment with them.
Special measures
Special measures, such as giving evidence by video link, can be provided for vulnerable and intimidated victims and witnesses to make it easier if you have to come to court.
Intermediaries
Intermediaries can help us to work better with those victims and witnesses who may have communication difficulties.
Prosecutors' Pledge
Published in 2005, the Prosecutors Pledge outlines the level of service victims and witnesses can expect to receive from prosecutors.
Direct Communication with Victims
CPS lawyers are dedicated to keeping victims of crime informed if a charge is substantially changed or discontinued.
Direct communication with victims
The Victims' Code
The Code of Practice for Victims' of Crime (the 'Victims' Code') was introduced on 3 April 2006. The Victims' Code sets out a minimum standard of service and aims to ensure that victims of crime, as recorded under the National Crime Recording Standard, are provided with timely, accurate information about their case, at all stages of the criminal justice process.
