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See other news storiesVictims advisory panel created
4 October 2006
A new Victims' Advisory Panel will help to ensure that victims' voices are heard in the criminal justice system.
The new panel will include people who have suffered from crimes such as burglary, anti-social behaviour and hate crime, or who are survivors of victims of serious violent crime.
It will examine the way victims and witnesses are treated and the way their experiences are handled by the criminal justice system, and then make formal recommendations for changes directly to Ministers.
The panel is a critical part of the government's commitment to put victims at the heart of the criminal justice system.
Emotional and practical support
Home Office Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said that, while crime is at record low levels, people are still victimised and their rights must be protected. 'Being a victim or witness of a crime can have a severe and damaging effect. We will ensure that victims have the emotional and practical support they need.'
The panel will work to ensure that victims feel the system is on their side as they go through the difficult process of giving evidence and working with police and prosecutors to ensure that criminals are brought to justice, he said.
Constitutional Affairs Minister Rt Hon Harriet Harman agreed adding, 'Crime victims must get the support they need from the criminal justice system.' The advisory panel, she said, 'will represent the needs of victims, whatever their circumstances.'
Hearing their voices
Kathryn Stone, the panel's spokesperson, is also the chief executive of Voice UK, a national charity for people with learning difficulties who have been victims of crime. She said the panel will provide a critical service.
'Too often the voice of the victim is not heard properly, or not heard early enough. We are looking forward to being the voice of victims of crime at a crucial stage - when policy is first being developed.'
Nine members appointed
The panel's members are:
- Kathryn Stone, Derbyshire
- Simon Duckett, London
- Sarah Brimelow, London
- Abigail Finnegan, Carlisle
- Michell Bernasconi, Manchester
- Claire Bentley, Bristol
- Michael Naish, London
- Margaret Oldfield, Yorkshire
- Frank Mullane, Swindon
