Victim and Witness Care

The criminal justice system (CJS) relies heavily on the willingness of prosecution witnesses, to give evidence in court, which enables offenders to be brought to justice. Without witnesses being repared to give evidence in court, all too often cases have to be abandoned, defendants avoid a trial and justice is not done.

Appearing in court can be a daunting experience. That is why the Crown Proscution Service (CPS) and our colleagues across the criminal justice system provide a range of measures to support victims and witnessess to help them give evidence at court.

The following initiatives are part of the government's angoing aim to put the needs of victims and witnesses at the heart of the criminal justice system.

Witness Care Units

The CPS in Staffordshire has two dedicated Witness Care Units whcih provide information and support for victims and witnesses. More information about Witness Care Units

 

Special Measures

Special measures can be put in place during the trial so that vulnerable and intimidated witnesses feel able to give their best possible evidence. More information on special measures

The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime

The Code sets out the level of servuce victims of crime in Staffordshire can expect from all agencies within the criminal justice system. More information about the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime

Direct Communications with Victims

CPS lawyers are committed to keeping victims of crime informed when they make a decision to drop or substatially alter a charge. More information about Direct Communication with Victims

Victim Personal Statements

Victim Personal Statements are a means by which victims can express the physical, psychological and emotional impact that crime has had on them. More information on Victim Personal Statements

The Prosecutors' Pledge

The Prosecutos' Pledge brings together the level of service that victims of crime should expect from prosecutors as their case progresses through the criminaljustice system. More information on the Prosecutors' Pledge