Victim Statements

Anyone who has been a victim of crime and given a statement to police has the opportunity to give a Victim Personal Statement.

Victim Personal Statements are optional written statements which give victims of crime an opportunity to say how they have been affected by the experience; whether it be physically, emotionally or financially. For example, a victim may wish to talk about fear of intimidation, concerns about bail and whether they would like help from a support agency.

Victim Personal Statements can provide additional information to that which is contained in statements made to the police. They become part of the case papers and are seen by the police, defence lawyers, magistrates and judges at court.

We take into account Victim Personal Statements when we make decisions on the case and ensure that, where appropriate, the court is aware of the contents of the statement so this can be considered, for example, in sentencing.

The development of local Witness Care Units is helping to ensure that 100% of victims are now offered the opportunity to provide a statement should they wish to.