A Strategic Vision for Victims and Witnesses
2007-2012 and Beyond
Victim Support is the largest service provider and leading voluntary organisation in Scotland helping people affected by crime. We provide practical help, emotional support and information to victims, witnesses and others affected by crime in the local community and in the courts, offering a high standard of service to all users.
Victim Support has campaigned for, and demonstrated that in the aftermath of a crime, or when called as a witness, individuals have specific needs that in the past went unmet. This Strategic Plan is developed within the context of the most radical changes and reforms to the justice system in Scotland for a generation, including developments such as:
A Safer Scotland
Improvements in the operation of the High Court
A national strategy for the Management of Offenders
The establishment of Community Justice Authorities
Smarter Justice, Safer Communities- Reform of Summary Justice
Publications of the Sentencing Commission for Scotland
The Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Act 2004
A Scottish Strategy for Victims
National Standards for Victims of Crime
Changes and improvements have been delivered in the care and support of victims. Reforms within the judicial system have improved arrangements for witnesses. However, more needs to be done. Victim Support continues to support a long-term policy to put victims’ needs at the heart of the criminal justice system and to improve their care, support and treatment.
To read more about Victim Support Scotland's Strategic Vision, please down load the document below
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A Strategic Vision for Victims and Witnesses 2007-2012 and beyond