Victims’ Code Hub
Know your rights. Get support if you’re affected by crime.
Students are used to looking out for their friends.
We share locations, stick together on nights out, and send the classic “text me when you’re home” message.
But if something does go wrong, many people don’t know about the support that’s available if you’re a victim of crime.
The Victims’ Code explains the rights that everyone can expect to receive as a victim of crime, and what support is available through the criminal justice system.
What is the Victims’ Code?
The Victims’ Code explains the rights that everyone can expect to receive as a victim of crime. You have 12 rights in total, which are:
Right 1
To understand and be understood.
Right 2
To have the details of the crime recorded without unjustified delay
Right 3
To be provided with information when reporting the crime
Right 4
To be referred to services that support victims and have services and support tailored to your needs
Right 5
To be provided with information about compensation
Right 6
To be provided with information about the investigation and prosecution
Right 7
To make a Victim Personal Statement
Right 8
To be given information about the trial, trial process and your role as a witness
Right 9
To be given information about the outcome of the case and any appeals
Right 10
To be paid expenses and have property returned
Right 11
To be given information about the offender following a conviction
Right 12
To make a complaint about your rights not being met
Whoever you are, whatever the crime
Criminal justice agencies are responsible for delivering the rights in the Victims’ Code. You can expect them to tell you about your rights as you go through the criminal justice process. Criminal justice agencies include:
- The police
- Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
- HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS)
- Youth Offending Teams
- HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS)
- British Transport Police
Can I get more support as a victim of crime?
Please visit victimscode.org.uk for more details on each of your rights and translations or accessible versions of the Victims’ Code.
You can also find more information about enhanced rights. These apply if you:
- Are under 18 years of age
- Are considered vulnerable
- Have been intimidated or repeatedly and deliberately targeted
- Are the victim of the most serious crime
