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Probation recognises the importance of keeping victims fully informed and supported as much as possible. Probation’s Victim Information Scheme which provides information to victims has had 256 new registrations from victims of crime this year which is an increase from this time last year of 9%. There has also been an increase in the number of victims registering who are victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Marking European Day for Victims of Crime, Probation’s Chief Executive Amanda Stewart alongside Geraldine Hanna, Victims of Crime Commissioner Designate heard from staff across Probation who are working to ensure that victims voices are heard and that their views are reflected in probation practice.
Probation supervises community sentences imposed by the Court and licences when people are released from custody. This includes working directly with victims of crime through the Victim Information Scheme which supports victims and their families through providing information about the type of order someone has been sentenced to. Where appropriate restorative interventions are provided and signposting to other relevant services.
One victim of crime registered with the Scheme paid tribute to the work carried out by Probation’s Victim Information Unit by saying:
The Unit reached out to us initially when the court process started and asked if we wanted to be kept in touch and I said yes. The Victim Liaison Officers were fantastic. They came to the house and just talked me through everything and explained the processes. The personal touch makes such a difference than just talking to someone on the phone. They listen and take the time to ask you if you are OK. They have reached out and let me know what’s available, help, support but also if I need them to pick up the phone. You couldn’t get that anywhere else.
Probation’s Chief Executive Amanda Stewart said:
Our staff, whether they are working in courts, in the community or in custody, place the victim at the centre of their work. Work that not only includes challenging offending behaviour but also addresses the impact of crime on the victim. We recognise that working in partnership is key to the effective running of the Scheme and meeting with the Victims of Crime Commissioner Designate to discuss how we can collectively improve services for victims is very welcome. Our work with community restorative groups as well as Victim Support NI also ensures that our work is victims focused.
Geraldine Hanna, Victims of Crime Commissioner Designate added:
My role is to give victims of crime a voice and strengthen and enhance existing provision to support them. From discussions it is clear that Probation is delivering a victim-focused service and providing much needed support through the Victim Information Schemes. There is however still much to be done across the justice sector to improve services for victims and a more coordinated approach is needed. I look forward to continuing to work with Probation, government and other criminal justice organisations to help put victims’ needs and interests where they should be.
Probation will continue to take every opportunity to ensure the needs of victims of crime are addressed and work in partnership to change lives for safer communities.
More information about how to register with the Scheme can be found on our website.