His Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) has today published an inspection of how well the CPS builds strong cases that support and protect victims of stalking.

We welcome the Inspectorate’s recognition of the commitment shown by our prosecutors and managers in identifying and tackling stalking to secure the right outcomes for victims. This includes acknowledgement of the progress made in adopting a suspect-centred approach and our clear national commitment through the CPS Stalking Action Plan. 

We realise the risk that stalking in all its forms presents and victims and survivors remain at the centre of this work. Improving communication with victims will remain a focus of our work. We will also continue to work with the police to ensure effective identification of appropriate special measures, Victim Personal Statements and protective orders, building cases in a way that is trauma-informed, suspect-centric and responsive to the dynamics of stalking and providing victims and survivors with timely information.

These developments are part of our wider work to improve the quality and consistency of CPS decision-making in stalking cases. We will build on these strengths while taking focused action to ensure consistently high-quality practice across all CPS Areas.

Inspectorate's recommendation

There is one recommendation. The CPS provides its response below and will continue to work with CJS partners in order to deliver this recommendation.

By April 2027, the Crown Prosecution Service should improve its engagement with the police post-charge to ensure that, in every relevant case, a Victim Personal Statement is obtained or the victim’s decision not to provide one is confirmed and recorded. In full code test cases, this information should be available on the case file by the first hearing. 

CPS response:

The CPS accepts the recommendation, we will improve our post-charge engagement with police, so that in every relevant case a Victim Personal Statement is obtained, or the victim’s decision not to provide one is confirmed and recorded, at the earliest opportunity.