Victims first

Working with Northumbria Police and other victim services we will:
  • Improve awareness of the support available for victims through the Northumbria Victim and Witness Service, and ensure it is easily accessible.
  • Help shape my commissioning of specialist victim services so those at the greatest risk of harm receive the support that works best for them.
  • Identify repeat victims and put in place safeguarding measures to protect them.
  • Understand and respond appropriately to vulnerable victims of crime and missing people while being aware of neurodivergent or mental health needs.
  • Ensure the voice of the victim is at the centre of service design and improvement.
  • Closely monitor victim satisfaction rates and ensure victims are provided with regular updates in relation to their cases.
  • Provide the opportunity for victims to explore restorative justice options that might help gain closure and lead to offenders understanding the impact of their actions.

 

Criminal Justice System

As Chair of the Northumbria Criminal Justice Board, I work with criminal justice agencies to deliver system wide improvements and will:
  • Work towards speedier justice for victims, identifying and resolving blockages where they exist making the process quicker in Northumbria.
  • Promote the Victims Code of Practice and uphold victims’ rights and entitlements.
  • Reduce the number of victims who drop out during the criminal justice process by making it easier for them to give evidence in a way that suits their needs.
  • Explore opportunities to increase the use of out of court resolutions to divert offenders away from the criminal justice system and prevent re-offending.
  • Improve public awareness about the work of the criminal justice system to build trust and confidence.

 

Measuring progress:
  • Victim satisfaction with services provided by Northumbria Police.
  • Compliance with the Victims’ Code of Practice.