Welcome to the victim section of CJS Online
This section is for anyone who has been affected by crime. Being a victim of a crime can be a difficult and confusing experience. The link on the right will take you to our "Victims Virtual Walkthrough", an interactive tour which has been developed to guide victims through the Criminal Justice System.
The tour explains each stage of the process any victim of crime will encounter, from the time a crime is reported, through the police investigation to prosecution, court processes and sentencing. Depending on the speed of your internet connection, and how long you wish to spend on each section, the walkthrough could take around 15 minutes to complete.
If you do not wish to take the tour, the navigation on the left provides information on the help and support available to victims of crime as well as what to expect from reporting a crime, what happens in court, and how to apply for compensation.
Your rights - The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime
Victims of crime can expect a minimum level of service from all the agencies that make up the Criminal Justice System. The Victims Code of Practice ensures that all victims are kept up to date on the progress of their case. It also provides an enhanced service for vulnerable and intimidated victims. Further information about the Code can be found in the 'Your Rights' section.
The Victims' Advisory Panel
The Victims' Advisory Panel (VAP) is a statutory advisory Non-Departmental Public Body established in March 2003 to enable victims of crime to have their say both in the reform of the Criminal Justice System (CJS) and in related developments in services and support for victims of crime. Download more information by clicking the link on the right.
The Victims' Champion
Sara Payne was appointed the Victims' Champion on 26 January 2009. She is keen to hear the experiences of victims to help her understand where services and support are working well and where there is need for further reform.
Please bear in mind that the Victims' Champion will not be taking on individual cases or responding to complaints. Victims should take up complaints in relation to the Code of Practice for Victims via individual agencies or if they have exhausted these via the Ombudsman. Details of how to do this can be found in The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime.
If you would like to share your experiences with the champion, please contact her using these details:
Sara Payne, c/o
Victims' Champion Team
Ministry of Justice
102 Petty France
London SW1H 9AT
Email Sara Payne