What is the Victims’ Code?

The Victims’ Code sets out and explains the rights which every victim of a crime has. Everyone is entitled to this; it does not differ depending on the crime. You have a right to be informed about the criminal justice process and key agencies should be providing this.

These key agencies include the police, the Crown Prosecution Service and HM Courts and Tribunals Service.

Why is the Victims’ Code important?

Victims of crime are often vulnerable and do not have full awareness of the criminal justice process. People often believe what they see on TV and do not know the full truth. The Victims’ Code has been created to inform the public of their rights and make sure key criminal justice agencies are held accountable to a high standard in order for victims to receive the support they deserve.

What rights are included in the Victims' Code?

In total there are 12 rights which you're entitled to.

Right 1: To be able to understand and to be understood.

You have the right to understand the information you're given and to be understood. This includes access to translation or interpretation services if needed.

Right 2: To have the details of the crime recorded without unjustified delay.

You have the right to have the crime recorded by the police promptly and may be able to get extra support from a specialist if you need help communicating. If you would like to know more about reporting a crime to the police. You can call our helpline on 0800 035 2794 which is open Monday to Thursday from 6 pm until 8.30 pm or email us on emailsupport@rctn.org.uk.

Right 3: To be provided with information when reporting the crime.

You have the right to receive written confirmation that the crime has been recorded, get information on the criminal justice process, and be told about support services.

Right 4: To be referred to services that support victims and have services and support tailored to your needs.

You have the right to be referred to support services or contact them directly. You should also be told about any extra support at court which is available to you. If you need support you click this link to make a referral to our counselling service or practical and emotional support service. If you need immediate support you can call the 24 hour National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 500 2222 or follow this link for more info. We also run a helpline and email support service which is available Monday to Thursday from 6pm until 8:30pm. Click here for more information.

Right 5: To be provided with information about compensation.

You have the right to be told about compensation that may be available for any loss, damage or injury caused by a crime. If you have an ISVA they can support you in claiming compensation or click here to find out more about claiming compensation.

Right 6: To be provided with information about the investigation and prosecution.

You have the right to be given updates on your case, be told about important decisions and ask for a review of certain decisions.

Right 7: To make a Victim Personal Statement.

You have the right to make a statement telling the court how the crime has affected you, which will be considered when sentencing the offender.

Right 8: To be given information about the trial, trial process and your role as a witness.

You have the right to be told the date, location and outcome of any hearing. If you need to give evidence, you can get help before, during and after the trial. Find out more about the court process.

Right 9: To be given information about the outcome of the case and any appeals.

You have the right to be told the outcome of the case and the sentence. If the offender appeals, you should be told the outcome.

Right 10: To be paid expenses and have property returned.

You have the right to claim expenses from giving evidence in court. If property was taken as evidence, you should get it back promptly.

Right 11: To be given information about the offender following a conviction.

You have the right to join the Victim Contact Scheme if eligible. The scheme gives you updates on the offender's sentence, including when they're being considered for release.

Right 12: To make a complaint about your rights not being met.

You have the right to complain to the relevant organisation if you're unhappy with how you've been treated. To find out how to make a complaint.

If you are currently in the criminal justice process and you need extra support, you can refer yourself to our Practical and Emotional support service who can support you through the system.