Victim Personal Statements

What are they?

Victim Personal Statements are optional written statements which give the victim an opportunity to say how they have been affected by the crime for example physically, emotionally or financially.

They may wish to talk about their fear of intimidation, concerns about bail and whether they would like help from a support agency.

Victim Personal Statements provide additional information to that given by the victim in their statement to the police.

Who can make a Victim Personal Statement?

Anyone who has been a victim of crime and who has made a statement to police has the opportunity to give a Victim Personal Statement. The development of the Witness Care Units is helping to ensure that 100% of victims are now offered the opportunity to provide a statement should they wish to.

What happens once a Victim Personal Statement has been taken?

The Victim Personal Statement becomes part of the case papers and is seen by the Police, defence lawyers, magistrates and judges at court.

What does the CPS do with the Victim Personal Statement?

We take into account what the victim says 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.