New victim information page

We have published a new, comprehensive, information page for victims of crime and their families. It provides practical details on victims’ rights and the services available across the justice sector - all in one place.

Although victims’ rights are outwith the Council’s remit, we recognise the need for the right help, information, and support to be provided to victims of crime and their families. Respecting the rights of victims and being responsive to their needs plays a key part in ensuring our justice system is fair and accessible for all.

While the Council does not provide direct support to individuals or families affected by crime, we promote awareness and understanding of sentencing. Our guidelines aim to explain how sentences are decided, and to assist sentencers in reaching those decisions.

The harm, or risk of harm, to any victim will always be central to the sentencing decision. Our guidelines ‘Principles and purposes of sentencing’ and ‘The sentencing process’, which apply to every sentencing decision, state that the impact on the victim must always be considered by the courts when deciding a sentence.

See our Information for victims web page.