Decision of PCC: Assured
Meeting date: 20 January 2026
Reason for Decision: Having considered the evidence, the PCC acknowledged the sustained efforts of the Force to uphold the rights, support and protection of victims of crime.
The PCC also expressed full support for the implementation of the Victims’ Portal. He recognises that it will strengthen communication, increase transparency and enhance overall victim experience.
Rationale:
In line with the PCC’s strategic priority to provide the right support for victims and vulnerable people, as detailed in the Police and Crime Plan 2024-29, the PCC will:
- Hold the Chief Constable to account for compliance with VCOP
- Seek assurance that victims’ experiences directly shape policing priorities and service delivery
- Provide reassurance to communities that victims are respected and supported, thereby strengthening public confidence in policing
Questions:
- In what ways does the Chief Constable demonstrate that compliance with the Victims’ Code of Practice (VCOP) is a strategic priority for the Force? What tangible evidence (such as governance arrangements, performance data or service improvements) can be provided to show this commitment?
- How does the Force ensure that victims, who are eligible for enhanced rights under the Victims’ Code of Practice, are accurately identified? What mechanisms are in place to monitor delivery of the required protections and entitlements?
- How does the Force monitor and evidence compliance with the requirement to provide every victim with the opportunity to make a Victim Personal Statement?
- What systems and processes are in place within the Force to ensure victims are consistently and promptly informed of case progress and key decisions? This includes case closure, bail outcomes, trial arrangements and offender release
- How does the Force guarantee continuity of communication and case management, when the officer originally assigned to a case leaves or is absent? How does the Force ensure another officer promptly assumes responsibility and the victim remains fully informed?
- What procedures does the Force have to ensure victims are consistently and appropriately referred to specialist or enhanced support services? How does it monitor, evaluate and report the effectiveness and uptake of these referrals?
- How does the Force ensure victims’ experiences actively shape policing priorities and service delivery? Can the Force provide case study examples to evidence this?
Further Information:
A summary of the evidence considered at this meeting can be accessed below:
Notes – Scrutiny Meeting – 20 January 2026 (application, 232kB)