Your Rights as a Crime Victim
If you are a victim of crime in England and Wales, you have rights under the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime (the Victims' Code). This statutory code, now strengthened by the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024, sets out the minimum level of service you should receive from criminal justice agencies.
Last updated: 2026-03-08
Your Rights
Right to Information
You have the right to be kept informed about the progress of your case, including whether a suspect has been arrested, charged, bailed, or released. The police must provide regular updates.
Right to Support
You are entitled to access victim support services, whether or not you report the crime to the police. Services are free and confidential.
Right to Make a Victim Personal Statement
You can make a Victim Personal Statement (VPS) explaining how the crime has affected you. This may be read out in court before sentencing.
Right to Apply for Compensation
You can apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for compensation if you suffered physical or mental injury as a result of a violent crime.
Right to Be Referred to Restorative Justice
You have the right to receive information about restorative justice and to participate if you choose. This allows you to communicate with the offender about the impact of the crime.
Common Myths
You have to report the crime to get support
You can access victim support services whether or not you report the crime to the police. Many services are available through self-referral.
Compensation is only for serious injuries
CICA compensation covers a range of injuries including psychological harm. However, there is a minimum threshold and claims must be made within 2 years.
The victim decides whether to prosecute
The decision to prosecute is made by the CPS, not the victim. However, the victim's views are taken into account, and you have the right to request a review under the Victims' Right to Review scheme.
What To Do
Report the crime
Call 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergency. You can also report online to your local police force.
Contact Victim Support
Call the free Victim Support helpline on 0808 168 9111 or visit victimsupport.org.uk for emotional support and practical help.
Make a VPS
Ask the police about making a Victim Personal Statement. This is your chance to tell the court how the crime affected you.
Apply for compensation
Apply to CICA within 2 years of the incident. You can apply online at gov.uk/claim-compensation-criminal-injury.
Key Legislation
- Victims and Prisoners Act 2024
- Code of Practice for Victims of Crime 2024
- Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 1995
- Domestic Abuse Act 2021