This is a written response by the Children’s Commissioner to the Ministry of Justice Consultation, A new victims code, on the proposed update to the Code which outlines how victims of crime should be supported through the criminal justice system.
The Children’s Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza, has a statutory independent role to protect and promote the rights of children in England. Bringing the views of children to government is central to her role in protecting and promoting their rights. This consultation response has been informed by interviews with children and young people.
The ultimate ambition is to prevent any child from becoming a victim of crime. However, until this ambition is realised, every child victim of crime deserves safety, justice, and to heal. This requires a justice system, including the Victims’ Code, which recognises and responds to the unique needs of children.
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