This will be the first ‘child-friendly’ version of this code, the government said
The UK government has invited young people and experts to provide input on the first “child-friendly” version of its new Victims’ Code.
This version will outline the rights of children as victims of crime in age-appropriate language, including the right to be referred or self-refer to support services. It also advises children of where to obtain support.
The new code also pitches permitting children aged 12 and up to have increased direct contact with police and probation officers alongside parents.
“Child victims need to know their rights, to be listened to, to be treated with dignity and care, and to get the support they are entitled to. This updated Victims’ Code sets out these rights much more clearly and provides a strong set of principles for the professionals who interact with child victims to follow, recognising they have different needs and different circumstances to adults,” said Rachel de Souza, UK children’s commissioner, in a statement. “I look forward to working closely with ministers to make sure as many children as possible are heard from during this consultation, to make sure their experiences are reflected, their choices recognised and that this code works for them.”
Deputy prime minister David Lammy said that enhancing the Victims’ Code was among the government’s manifesto commitments.
“Through the revisions we’re proposing, children will be the drivers on their journey to justice. More widely, proposed improvements to the Victims’ Code for all victims include new fundamental principles and training for agencies across the justice system to deliver a higher standard of communication with victims,” he said in a statement.
The government has launched the Understand your Rights campaign across England and Wales to raise awareness of the Victims’ Code.
“The Victims’ Code sets out the fundamental rights everyone is entitled to after a crime. These rights are not optional; they are vital for a victim’s participation in the justice system. Yet, inconsistent delivery means too many still feel sidelined by the justice process,” said Claire Waxman, Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, in a statement. “This consultation is a vital opportunity to bridge that gap and rebuild the trust and confidence that is so urgently needed. I am committed to ensuring victims’ voices shape this work so we can put their experience at the heart of the justice system, and ensure agencies are held to account for delivering the timely information and support that victims deserve.”
The new Victims’ Code was revealed on last Thursday February 5.
