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<p>The Victims’ Code is freely available online, but we know more must be done to
support and protect victims. We have made positive steps to improve the experience
of victims, by reducing unnecessary stress and emotional turmoil of attending court.
We have also reconvened the Victims’ Panel, so we can learn from the experiences of
victims of crime.</p><p> </p><p>Under the Victims’ Code those victims who feel that
their rights have not been met can complain directly to the criminal justice agency
concerned, and if they remain dissatisfied can take their complaint to the Parliamentary
and Health Service Ombudsman. We are currently considering how compliance with the
Victims’ Code might be improved and monitored, and exploring how those delivering
services can be better held to account. Plans to engage with and obtain the views
of victims and victims’ groups and criminal justice agencies are being developed.
We will set out our strategy for victims within 12 months, and will bring forward
any appropriate primary legislation.</p>
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