Police and Crime Commissioner North Yorkshire
Information for victims of crime
Contents Go to
4
Foreword from the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable
Your entitlements Go to
5
What are your entitlements under the Victims' Code?
Go to
6
Message to you from Supporting Victims
Go to
7
Supporting Victims information
Go to
8
Making a Victim Personal Statement and Business Impact Statement
Go to
9 and 10
Your Victim Personal Statement (MG11 VPS)
Go to
11
Young victims
The court process Go to
12
Help in court – Special Measures
Go to
13
Going to court – the role of the Witness Care Officer
Go to
14 and 15 Your journey through the Criminal Justice System
Alternatives to going to court Go to
16
Alternatives to going to court/Community Remedy
Go to
17
Restorative Justice
Other support available Go to
18
Criminal injuries claims
Go to
19
How to make a complaint and Victims' Right to Review
Information about different types of crime Go to
20
Domestic abuse
Go to
21
Domestic Violence Protection Notices and Honour based violence
Go to
22
Child sexual exploitation
Go to
23
Rape and sexual assault
Go to
24
Cybercrime
Go to
25
Bogus callers and distraction burglary
Go to
26
Hate crime
Get in touch Go to
27
Contact details
Your entitlements
Foreword A message from Julia Mulligan, your Police and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire
A message from Dave Jones, your Chief Constable for North Yorkshire Police
This booklet is designed to help people affected by crime understand the services on offer in North Yorkshire and to set out what you can expect from the police and others whose job it is to help you.
Firstly, I would like to thank you for reporting this crime to North Yorkshire Police.
What are your entitlements under the Victims’ Code? If you are a victim of crime in England or Wales you are entitled to support from the criminal justice agencies under the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime, even if you don’t report the incident to the police. You are also entitled to support if you are a close relative of somebody who has been killed as a result of a crime.
North Yorkshire is one of the safest counties to live in and visit and we aim to keep it that way. The information you have provided is vital in our fight against crime and in keeping you and your community safe.
Here in North Yorkshire, I have introduced a range of local services available through a new dedicated unit called Supporting Victims.
Under the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime you are entitled to:
! An enhanced service if you are a victim of 1
! Be informed if you need to give evidence in court, what to expect and discuss what help and support you might need with the Witness Care Unit
2
serious crime , a persistently targeted victim or a vulnerable or intimidated victim3
! Arrange a court familiarisation visit and enter
! A needs assessment to help work out what
the court through a different entrance from the suspect and sit in a separate waiting area where possible
support you need
! Information on what to expect from the Criminal Justice System
I want you to feel confident that North Yorkshire Police will ensure that both your emotional and practical needs are met and will provide you with the best possible service at all times. By working closely with our Criminal Justice partners we can hopefully achieve a satisfactory outcome for you and your family.
In addition to local services, victims of crime have a number of rights and entitlements set out in the national Code of Practice for Victims of Crime. These include but are not limited to, receiving a written acknowledgement, which states the basic elements of the crime, a needs assessment to help work out what support you need; information on what to expect from the criminal justice system and being referred to organisations supporting victims of crime to name but a few.
and outcome of any court hearings
reported a crime, including the basic details of the offence
At North Yorkshire Police, we all recognise that being a victim of crime can be a stressful time and we understand that the impact of the crime will differ from person to person. Our officers and staff are able to deal with all aspects of your investigation and will keep you updated with any developments as they arise.
The police will give you their details and will ask them to contact you. It is Supporting Victims' job to help people cope and recover from crime - whether you need access to information and advice over the phone, or more specialist services such as one-toone counselling or domestic abuse support. Please go to www.supportingvictims.org to see the full range of services on offer as they depend upon your personal needs. We understand that different people need different things at different times. If you do not want to contact Supporting Victims at the moment, please keep this booklet in case you would like to do so at a future date.
! Be informed of the time, date and location
! A written acknowledgement that you have
! Meet the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
! Be referred to organisations supporting
advocate and ask him or her questions about the court process where circumstances permit
victims of crime
! Be informed about the police investigation, such as if a suspect is arrested and charged and any bail conditions imposed
! Be informed of any appeal against the offender's conviction or sentence
! Make a Victim Personal Statement (VPS) to
! To opt into the Victim Contact Scheme (VCS)
explain how the crime affected you
This booklet has been written with you in mind and I hope you find it useful and informative. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your officer looking after your case.
if the offender is sentenced to 12 months or more for a specified violent or sexual offence
! Read your VPS aloud or have it read aloud on your behalf, subject to the views of the court, if a defendant is found guilty
! Apply for compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme
! Be informed if the suspect is to be
I want you to feel reassured that you don't have to face this situation on your own; there are teams of staff who will help you every step of the way.
! Receive information about Restorative Justice
prosecuted or not or given an out of court disposal
and how you can take part
! Make a complaint if you do not receive the
! Seek a review of the police or Crown
information and services you are entitled to, and to receive a full response from the relevant service provider
Prosecution Services (CPS) decision not to prosecute in accordance with the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and CPS Victims' Right to Review schemes
Finally, if you have any comments or questions about the service you receive, in the first instance, please talk to the police officer dealing with your case. If this is not practical, then contact Supporting Victims on 01609 643100. Additionally, should you wish to contact me, please email
[email protected] or call 01423 569562. I am very keen to ensure that services offered in North Yorkshire meet your needs.
A more comprehensive list of entitlements can be found within the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime, which can be located on www.gov.uk 1
Victims of the most serious crimes (Domestic abuse, sexual offences, hate crime, human trafficking, terrorism, attempted murder, kidnap, wounding (grievous bodily harm with intent), false imprisonment, arson with intent to endanger life)
I hope you find the booklet useful and that as much as possible, you are soon able to get your life back after crime.
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2
Persistently targeted victims (A victim that has been targeted repeatedly as a direct victim of crime over a period of time; particularly if they have been deliberately targeted; or they are a victim of a sustained campaign of harassment or stalking)
3
Vulnerable and intimidated (Under 18's, witness with mental disorder, learning or physical disability: or witness in fear of giving evidence or witness is the complainant in a sexual offence case) 5
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Your entitlements
Your entitlements
What about victims who do not want to report to the police? In addition to referrals from the police, you can also refer yourself to Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire without having to first report a crime. The telephone number, email address and website will provide direct routes for you to refer into. We know that some victims may not wish to report a crime, but it is important to remember that you are still entitled to support.
What is Supporting Victims?
Message to you from Supporting Victims Being a victim of crime can be a traumatic and sometimes life changing event. That's why in North Yorkshire we want you, as a victim of crime, to be confident to access the services you need from both North Yorkshire Police and our dedicated local support service, Supporting Victims. Because Supporting Victims works in partnership with North Yorkshire Police we may get in touch with you directly to offer you support after crime, unless you have stated to the police that you don't want to be contacted by the team. There is no need to worry about your information as this is held on a secure database and will not be shared with any other agency without your consent. If you decide to contact the Supporting Victims Team or we get in touch with you, we will ask a few questions to find out how you have been affected by the crime in order to identify any support we can provide. Often, just talking to someone, especially someone independent from your family and friends can help enormously. Once we understand what your needs are, the team can advise you about the range of practical and emotional support on offer through Supporting Victims. If necessary we can also help you access support provided by other organisations.
The Supporting Victims service provides support for anyone affected by crime in North Yorkshire. This includes victims, bereaved relatives, parents or guardians of victims under 18, those under 18 wherever possible with consent, and those affected by business crime.
What can I access via the Supporting Victims Team? Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire will provide you with immediate practical and emotional support and will also assess your individual needs.
The team is based in York, and provides a service accessible for all North Yorkshire victims. As part of new local arrangements, and in line with the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime, improved and expanded services are available in North Yorkshire, and victims of all crimes even those crimes not reported to the police, are now entitled to access support.
Where appropriate and with consent, Supporting Victims will refer you to the specialist support services described below:
! Independent Victim Case Workers/Managers for all victims of crime: a single point of contact for practical and emotional support from the point of crime, throughout the criminal justice process and beyond to enable victims to cope and recover
Our underpinning values when dealing with victims of crime are:
! Compassion and Care: helping victims of crime to get back on track
! Counselling/Talking Therapy Service for
! Communication: using clear and simple The impact of a crime often isn't just emotional, it can be practical too, such as broken windows, locks or cleaning up after a crime has taken place. You can speak to Supporting Victims about these needs too, and we will advise you on how you can get support to help you with these problems.
victims interested in receiving Counselling: there are four providers covering the whole of North Yorkshire delivering free counselling to support victims of crime to enable their recovery journey
language to inform victims of what they need to know; when they need to know it
! Commitment: to listening, understanding and helping victims
All those affected by crime, regardless of whether or not they choose to report this to the police, are able to access independent advice and emotional and practical support through the Supporting Victims service. So please don't let someone you know suffer in silence.
!
How can Supporting Victims help?
! Restorative Justice Service for victims
Contact us on 01609 643100 between 8am and 7pm Monday to Friday. If you need help outside of these hours, you can call the National Victim Information Line on 0808 16 89 293. Alternatively, you can email us at
[email protected] or speak to a police officer who can get in touch with us on your behalf.
When you speak to a member of staff from the Supporting Victims team, they will assess your needs and ask some general questions around how you feel about what has happened to determine the impact the crime has had on you.
! Independent Domestic Violence Adviser
You can find out more about our services on our website www.supportingvictims.org
Then they will offer;
No matter what the crime, we're here to help you and if you don't need anything now, but things change for you later, just contact us when you're ready.
interested in taking part in Restorative Justice: Remedi offer victims of crime the opportunity to meet with their offender in a safe and controlled way (see page 17) (IDVA) and Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) service for victims of Domestic and Sexual Abuse: Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) is delivering an Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) and Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) service across North Yorkshire. This service provides a single point of contact for emotional and practical support for victims of domestic and sexual abuse from the point of crime throughout the criminal justice process and beyond to enable victims to cope and recover (see page 20 and 23)
! Immediate, over the telephone emotional and practical support
! Referral with consent to local victim advocates who can meet with you face-to-face
Thank you from Supporting Victims
! Referral with consent to specialist victim services provided through our partners such as counselling or restorative justice services
! Signposting to other support organisations as appropriate 6
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Form MG11 VPS - 01/2014
NORTH YORKSHIRE POLICE
Your entitlements
RESTRICTED (when complete)
Making a Victim Personal Statement
VICTIM PERSONAL STATEMENT Criminal Justice Act 1967, s.9; Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, ss.5A(3)(a) & 5B; Magistrates’ Courts Rules 1981. r.70)
A Victim Personal Statement (VPS) is a voluntary written account that you can give to the police if you have been a victim of a crime. It is your way of telling people, working in the Criminal Justice System, about the crime you have suffered and the impact it has had on you, whether physically, emotionally, psychologically, financially or in any other way.
Whilst you may want to read your Victim Personal Statement out in court it is for the court to decide whether this is appropriate. You will be notified of the court's decision.
Business Impact Statement The Victims’ Code also entitles you to make a further impact statement if your business or enterprise (such as a charity) has been the victim of a crime. The Business Impact Statement allows you to detail how the crime has affected your business in terms of the direct financial impact (assets stolen or damaged), indirect financial impact (loss of custom, loss of staff time, etc) and nonfinancial impact (reputational damage).
Your VPS gives you a voice and helps the court to understand what you have been through. Before deciding to make a VPS, you will be advised by the police that if the case reaches court, it will be seen by the defence and you may be asked questions about it during the trial. You will be asked whether or not you would like to read your statement out in court or have someone read it out aloud on your behalf, if the defendant pleads guilty. Again, this is voluntary and your Victim Personal Statement will still be taken into account by the courts whether it is read out aloud or not.
The making of a Business Impact Statement does not prevent you from making a separate Victim Personal Statement detailing how the crime has impacted on you. If appropriate to your circumstances, the officer in the case will arrange for the completion of this statement.
URN ( official use only) Crime reference number
Statement of ............................................................................................................................................... This statement (consisting of page(s) each signed by me) is true to the best of my knowledge and belief and I make it knowing that, if it is tendered in evidence, I shall be liable to procecution if I have wilfully stated in it anything which I know to be false, or do not believe to be true. Signature:
Date:
Witness to read:
E L
A Victim Personal Statement tells the Criminal Justice authorities dealing with your case what effect the crime has had on you and any concerns you have. It will supplement the information you have already provided to the police in the statement about the crime. This statement becomes part of the case papers and will be seen by all Criminal Justice Agencies, ie Crown Prosecution Service, Defence, Magistrates and Judges. The information provided may be considered by the courts with regard to decisions of bail or sentence.
P M
I have been given the Victim Personal Statement (VPS) leaflet and the VPS scheme has been explained to me. What follows is what I wish to say in connection with this matter. I understand that what I say may be used in various ways and that it may be disclosed to the defence.
A X
* I do not wish this VPS to be read aloud in Court. * I wish this VPS to be read aloud in Court by the Prosecutor on my behalf. * I wish to read this VPS aloud in Court myself.
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* Please endorse one option from the above.
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What you can include in your Victim Personal Statement:
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! Any physical or psychological injury you may have suffered
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! If you no longer feel safe
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! The impact on your family
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! How your quality of life has changed on a day-to-day basis ! If you are worried about the alleged offender being given bail ! If you feel the crime was racially motivated or that your faith, sexuality or disability played a part in the crime ! If you need or are receiving additional support as a result of the crime ! If you intend to claim compensation from the alleged offender for any injury, loss or damage !
You can make a Victim Personal Statement at any point during the process, provided that it is made before the case goes to court or before the offender is sentenced. If you are not ready to make a VPS today, you can complete the enclosed Victim Personal Statement and contact the police officer dealing with your case who will arrange to collect this from you. 8
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Signature: ................................................................. Signature witnessed by: ........................................................
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RESTRICTED – for POLICE and PROSECUTION ONLY (when complete)
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Your entitlements
Young victims
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If you are a young victim under the age of 18, you and usually your parent or guardian, will be automatically entitled to receive an enhanced service under the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime.
Supporting Victims – support services for young people You can contact Supporting Victims if you have been a victim of crime, whether you report it to the police or not. Supporting Victims - support services for young people can provide help and support to young victims.
As a young victim you will be entitled to the same entitlements as an adult victim, as detailed on page 5 of this booklet. Your parent or guardian may be updated with the progress of the case, if that is your preferred method.
When you contact Supporting Victims we will talk to you about your individual needs and where required, we will put you in touch with one of our specialist service providers who can offer you the right kind of help.
Added to these entitlements, as a young victim, you would be able to have your statement video recorded to make it easier for you to tell the police what happened. Making a video recorded statement may also mean that you do not have to repeat this evidence in court. However, you can choose to give live evidence at court if you would prefer not to make a video statement.
Young people and consent Supporting Victims believes that the best way to work with young people in most cases is in partnership with their parents or guardians and by having their consent in relation to the services and support the young person can be provided with.
On page 12 of this booklet there is a list of special measures that victims may have to make giving evidence easier. Two of these special measures are used mainly for young victims:
! Giving evidence in a different room by video
Generally, we will only ever work with young people under the age of 16 years with the consent of their parents/guardians. However, in a minority of cases we recognise that young people aged 16/17 years would benefit from support and that consent from parents or guardians may not be possible to gain.
link
! Judges and solicitors removing their wigs and gowns in court These measures can be discussed with the officer in charge of your case or your Witness Care Officer.
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If this is the case, a young person's competence and maturity to make decisions will be assessed by Supporting Victims over the phone. They will check whether the young person understands the support they can be offered and how it could help them and where appropriate, support will be offered to the young person.
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RESTRICTED – for POLICE and PROSECUTION ONLY (when complete) 11
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The court process
The court process
Help in court - special measures
Going to court – the role of the Witness Care Officer
Special measures are arrangements put in place to help you, if you are a vulnerable or intimidated victim, to give your best evidence in court.
If your case goes to court, you may be a witness in the trial. If your case does not go to court, you should be told the reason for this decision.
Speak with the officer in your case or your Witness Care Officer if you would like more information on how they may help you. The police and Crown Prosecution Service will apply for any special measures on your behalf but the court will make the final decision about whether the special measures that have been requested can be used.
The special measures available are:
5 Video recorded interview as evidence in chief -
1 Screens -
in certain circumstances the police will obtain your account by video interview rather than a written statement. The prosecution can apply for this video interview to be used in place of you physically giving evidence in court.
available to screen you from the defendant in the court room so that you cannot be seen by the defendant whilst giving evidence.
2 Live link you can give evidence during the trial from a room outside the court room or a suitable location outside the court house, via live TV link. Screens can also be applied for, to block the defendant's view of television monitors in court.
6 Having someone (an intermediary) to help you understand questions when being interviewed or giving evidence. Intermediaries explain questions and answers without changing the substance of the evidence.
7 Aids to communication -
3 Evidence given in private -
these may be permitted to help a witness to give evidence. This could include using an interpreter or someone to communicate for you or it could cover the use of a communications aid or technique. Whatever aids are allowed they must be independently verified and understood by the court.
members of the public are excluded from the court room whilst you give evidence.
4 Removal of wigs and gowns used at Crown Court. Judge and lawyers remove their wigs and gowns to create a less formal environment. This is predominantly used for young witnesses.
If the case goes to trial, you will be assigned a Witness Care Officer. You can ask them questions about attending court and they will keep you up-to-date about what is happening.
How can I contact the North Yorkshire Witness Care Unit?
Your Witness Care Officer will explain what to expect when going to court and will:
! Contact you if you are needed to give evidence
We are open: Monday - Thursday 8:00am to 17:00pm Friday 8:00am to 16:30pm
in court
! Keep you updated about dates and locations of court hearings
! Conduct a needs assessment and highlight any medical issues to the court
Phone 01609 643101 or dial 101, press option 2 and ask for Witness Care
! Explain the benefits of using Special Measures and the Victim Personal Statement in court
! Arrange a court familiarisation visit with the Witness Service
! Arrange interpreters, travel, accommodation
There will be a Witness Services volunteer at the court on the day of the trial. They will offer you support and will ensure that you have a copy of your statement prior to you giving your evidence. This is to act as a reminder of what you have said in your statement, but you will not be allowed to take the statement into the court room.
and child care if necessary If you have any problems or concerns about going to court, you must let the person who asked you to go to court know as soon as possible. This will enable any issues raised to be resolved as quickly as possible.
Footnote: 1 - 5 are special measures available for vulnerable and intimidated witnesses 6 - 7 are special measures available for vulnerable witnesses only
Vulnerable and intimidated (under 18's, witness with mental disorder, learning or physical disability: or witness in fear of giving evidence or witness is the complainant in a sexual offence case).
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Your journey through the Criminal Justice System You report a crime to North Yorkshire Police
Staff in the force control room will consider your needs based on the incident you are reporting. They will inform you of how it will be dealt with and advise whether officer attendance is required or not.
If officer attendance is required they will; l If necessary, take a Witness Statement l Complete the Victim Contact Agreement l Give you a Crime Reference Number l If necessary, explain Special Measures l Ask if you would like to make a Victim Personal Statement (VPS) l Provide you with relevant literature
101
From the start of the process you can access a range of services from Supporting Victims (see page 6 and 7).
999
The crime will be investigated and you will be informed if a suspect is arrested and charged. You will also be advised if no progress is made and the case gets closed.
North Yorkshire Police submit the case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
CPS will advise the officer whether the case can progress to court or not. If your case is going to court you will be assigned a Witness Care Officer.
STOP No progress and the case is closed
North Yorkshire Witness Care Unit will: l Contact you if you are needed to give evidence in court l Keep you updated about dates and locations of court hearings l Conduct a needs assessment and highlight any medical issues to the court
The offender will be found guilty or not guilty at court.
l Explain the benefits of using Special Measures and the VPS in court l Arrange a court familiarisation visit with the Witness Service l Arrange interpreters, travel, accommodation and child care if necessary
Community Sentence If found not guilty the process ends. The Witness Care Unit will notify you of the decision.
If found guilty the offender is sentenced from a range of disposals in line with the National Sentencing Guidelines. The Witness Care Unit will provide a written update advising you of the final result and the sentence the offender has received.
STOP
Key North Yorkshire Police Crown Prosecution Service Court proceedings
Custodial Sentence
Witness Care Unit North Yorkshire
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Alternatives to going to court
Alternatives to going to court
Restorative Justice
Alternatives to going to court There are a number of out-of-court disposals available for the police to consider:
Dealing with a crime out-of-court allows the police to deal proportionately with certain crimes. Out-of-court disposals are not suitable for more serious cases and for those where the offender does not admit their responsibility. They would also not normally be considered for those offenders who repeatedly commit crimes.
! Community Remedy and Restorative Justice ! Simple Adult Cautions or Youth Cautions (for under 18's)
! Adult Conditional Cautions or Youth
Victims of crime participating in RJ may feel some levels of anxiety; especially if they are meeting the person who has harmed them, however, this can be a huge step in moving forward and recovering from the crime.
Restorative Justice (RJ) gives victims of crime within North Yorkshire the chance to meet or communicate with their offenders to explain the real impact of the crime – it empowers victims by giving them a voice. It also holds offenders to account for what they have done and helps them to take responsibility and make amends.
For offenders, the experience can be extremely challenging as it confronts them with the personal impact of their crime. There is growing evidence that RJ can help reduce future re-offending by those who have participated in the process. Restorative justice can be used for any type of crime and at any stage of the criminal justice system, including alongside a prison sentence.
Conditional Cautions (for under 18's) North Yorkshire Police, the Crown Prosecution Service or Youth Offending Team may consider an alternative to going to court is a more appropriate method of dealing with your case. You will be asked for your views, which will be taken into account before any decision is made.
! Penalty Notices for Disorder or Cannabis Warnings.
Restorative Justice is about victims and offenders communicating within a safe environment either through face-to-face discussions or via written communication including letters, recorded interviews or video. Where a victim meets their offender face-to-face, these discussions are led by a facilitator who supports and prepares the people taking part and makes sure that the process is safe.
Community Remedy A Community Remedy covers the out-of-court options available to deal with anti-social behaviour and low level crime in the community if considered suitable.
Community Remedy gives victims a much greater say in dealing with offenders who commit low level crime and anti-social behaviour. Some of the options available include:
Remedi Restorative Services is the commissioned provider who works on behalf of the Police and crime Commissioner throughout the county. They work alongside Supporting Victims and other partners such as local authorities, probation services and Youth Offending Teams.
However, for any kind of communication to take place, the offender must have admitted to the crime, and both victim and offender must want the interaction to take place.
If you want to consider RJ as an option, please contact Supporting Victims on 01609 643100 to discuss the RJ options available to you.
! The offender paying for the damage they have
Anti-social behaviour is a term that covers a wide range of issues that can cause misery in communities.
caused
! The offender being referred to an alcohol abuse programme, to help tackle their drinking problem
The objectives for Community Remedy are;
! The offender entering into a contract which
1. Avoiding criminalising individuals for first time and/or low level offences
spells out acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. If the offender breaks this contract, this can be used as evidence for further action
2. Allowing flexibility in the way in which antisocial behaviour and low level crimes can be dealt with in a face-to-face manner
The suitability of the options depends on the nature of the offence, the age of the offender and the particular circumstances. A police officer will discuss the situation with you, to help you to come to the best solution. They will do their best to take all of your views into account before deciding the final course of action.
3. Ensuring resources used for preparing cases for court are used proportionately North Yorkshire Police engaged in a consultation exercise with members of the public to identify options available to be used as part of Community Remedy.
In some cases, a police officer may be able to suggest additional options that are available in your local area.
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Other support available
Other support available
Criminal injuries claims If you are an innocent victim of a violent crime, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). You can apply for compensation if you, or someone you know, has been hurt in a violent crime, but you must apply within two years of when the attack happened.
To get compensation, you must be eligible under the Scheme's rules. Not all claims will be successful. You make your claim through an online form, which should only take about 15 minutes to complete.
You may have been affected by a violent crime in any one or a number of ways and can ask the CICA to consider a claim for the following:
! Mental or physical injury ! Sexual or physical abuse
Before doing this though, you will need your unique police reference number and the contact details of any doctor who treated your injury (if you received treatment).
! Loss of earnings: where either you cannot work at all or not as much as before as a direct result of a criminal injury
! Special expenses: where you have had
How to make a complaint
! By writing to Professional Standards
North Yorkshire Police is committed to giving you the best service possible. If you have a complaint or are dissatisfied with the service you have received from the police or wish to raise any concerns, please let us know.
! To the Independent Police Complaints
Department, North Yorkshire Police HQ, Alverton Court, Crosby Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire. DL6 1BF Commission. (Please note that under the new complaint legislation, the IPCC will take a much smaller role in the processing of complaints and any complaints sent to them will be forwarded automatically to North Yorkshire Police) ! www.ipcc.gov.uk/complaints
You are entitled to be treated in a respectful, sensitive and professional manner. Where this is not the case or where the services you are entitled to have not been provided, you have the right to complain.
! In person, at any police station Complaints about other service providers listed under the Victims’ Code
The North Yorkshire Police Professional Standards Department is responsible for the investigation of these complaints.
Where any service provider other than the police does not provide you with the services required under the Victims’ Code, you are entitled to make a complaint.
There are a number of ways you can make a complaint:
! By phoning 101 and speaking to an operator
certain costs as a direct result of an incident. You can only ask for these to be considered if your injuries mean you have been unable to work for more than 28 weeks or you have no longer been able to look after yourself for the same length of time
If you need help with your claim or have any questions, you can contact Supporting Victims on 01609 643100 or the CICA Customer Service Centre advisors on 0300 003 3601. You can also get guidance from your local Citizens Advice Bureau, a law centre or a welfare rights organisation. If you belong to a trade union, it may be able to help too.
! A fatality: where you have had to make bereavement or funeral payments or paid for the loss of a parent's care and financial dependency
The Hardship Fund If your injuries do not qualify you for criminal injuries compensation, the government has a Hardship Fund. This provides short-term help with financial hardship to very low paid workers who are temporarily unable to work because they have been a victim of a violent crime. The fund only applies to injuries received in England and Wales. For more information, please contact the National Victim Support line on 0300 303 1971
They must provide you with either an acknowledgement or a response within ten working days of receiving your complaint.
who will record your complaint and forward to the relevant department
! By visiting www.northyorkshire.police.uk
In the first instance, and if you feel comfortable doing so, we encourage you to discuss your complaint directly with the service provider you have been dealing with.
where you can access and complete the online complaint form
Victims' Right to Review
Victims will be notified by police of the decision not to bring proceedings.
The Victim's Right to Review scheme gives victims the right to request a review of a police decision not to prosecute a suspect. Only cases where the decision to take no further action was made after 1 April 2015 qualify for the scheme.
If the victim wishes to exercise their right to review they should contact the Victims Right to Review Officer as detailed below. The request for review can be made up to three months following the decision to take no further action being made.
In order to qualify for the scheme the case must be one in which:
The Victims' Right to Review Officer can be contacted:
! You have been the victim of crime
By phoning 101, selecting option 2 and asking to speak to the Victims' Right to Review Officer.
! A suspect has been identified and interviewed under caution, either following an arrest or by voluntary arrangement.
By emailing
[email protected]
! Your right to request a review arises where
By writing to The Victims’ Right to Review Officer, Athena House, Kettlestring Lane, York, YO30 4XF
the police:
! Make a decision not to bring proceedings in cases where the police have authority to charge; or
For further information about the scheme, please visit the Victims' Right to Review section on the North Yorkshire Police website www.northyorkshire.police.uk
! Make a decision that the case does not meet the test for referral to the CPS for a charging decision and you are the victim of that crime 18
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Information about different types of crime
Information about different types of crime
Domestic abuse
Domestic Violence Protection Notices (DVPN) and Orders (DVPO)
North Yorkshire Police takes domestic abuse very seriously and can help and protect you.
If you have reported this type of crime to North Yorkshire Police, the likelihood is that they will already have put you in touch with IDAS and you may already have IDVA or outreach support in place. If not, IDAS also have a dedicated domestic abuse helpline which provides a single, independent point of contact for victims (or concerned third parties) to self-refer into.
Domestic abuse is any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. Such abuse can include, but is not limited to: physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual.
If you do find yourself in the court process, we know that it can be hard for victims to give evidence against someone they love or fear but it is important to send a strong message that domestic abuse or violence is never acceptable and the services available above can support you to do this.
North Yorkshire Police work closely with many partner organisations, including IDAS who are the North Yorkshire independent domestic abuse support organisation. IDAS can provide support to victims through Independent Domestic Violence Advisers (IDVAs).
Just talking to someone about what you are going through will make you realise that there are people on your side who can help you understand what choices are available to you and guide you to specialist organisations that can support you in making you and your family safe moving forward.
IDVAs support victims and their families whether they are involved in prosecutions or not. They help those involved in court processes, as this can help increase their safety. They offer support before, during and after any key criminal justice intervention because they know these are times when people feel anxious and when risk might increase.
Victims can contact IDAS via their 24/7 helpline number 03000 110 110 or via their live chat service on their website www.idas.org.uk Alternatively just call Supporting Victims on 01609 643100 or Email:
[email protected] and they can put you in touch with the most relevant service to support your needs.
A DVPN is the initial notice issued by the police under Section 24 of the Crime and Security Act 2010 to provide emergency protection to a victim of domestic abuse. The notice contains prohibitions that prevent the suspected perpetrator from either returning to the victim's home or contacting the victim and aims to give the victim time to consider their options and what to do next.
The notice lasts for 48 hours. During this time the police must apply for a Domestic Violence Protection Order at Magistrates Court. If granted at Magistrates Court, the order can prohibit the perpetrator from returning to a residence and having contact with the victim for up to 28 days. Once granted, if breached, a perpetrator can be arrested and held in custody to appear at Magistrates Court. The sentence can be either a fine or imprisonment.
The notice can be issued to a person aged 18 years or over if authorised by a Police Superintendent if there are reasonable grounds to believe that an individual has been violent, or threatened violence towards an associated person and the notice is necessary to protect that person from violence or threat of violence.
This is a short term intervention aimed to offer victims immediate and time limited support and safety. It is not a long term solution or alternative to criminal or civil remedies.
Honour Based Violence North Yorkshire Police takes any report of so called 'honour' based violence very seriously and deals with each case sensitively and confidentially. We work hard to keep victims safe and prevent further crimes from happening.
On 16 June 2014 forced marriage became a criminal offence punishable by up to seven years in jail. Forced marriage is a crime where one or both parties do not consent to the marriage, and the couples are forced into the marriage against their will.
So called 'honour' based violence is a crime or incident which has or may have been committed to protect the 'honour' of the family or community.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)is a barbaric practice for supposed cultural, religious or nonmedical reasons.
It is often linked to family members or associates who mistakenly believe someone has brought shame to their family or community by doing something that is not in keeping with the traditional beliefs of their culture.
Victims of so called 'honour' based violence, forced marriage and female genital mutilation have a right to be believed and their safety, well-being and welfare are of vital importance to North Yorkshire Police.
Women and girls are the most common victims of so called 'honour' based violence however, it can also affect men and boys. Crimes committed in the name of 'honour' might include;
If you or someone you know is experiencing or has been a victim of so called 'honour' based violence, please contact us on 101.
Domestic abuse Threats of violence Sexual or psychological abuse Assault Being held against your will or taken somewhere you don't want to go ! Forced marriage
! ! ! ! !
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Alternatively you can contact Karma Nirvana, a UK based charity that supports victims and survivors of forced marriage and HBV. To find out more visit www.karmanirvana.org.uk or phone the Karma Nirvana helpline on 0800 5999 247. 21
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Information about different types of crime
Information about different types of crime
Child sexual exploitation
Rape and Sexual Assault
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is the sexual exploitation of children and young people under 18. It involves exploitative situations, contexts and relationships where young people receive “something” (eg food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, affection, gifts, money) as a result of performing sexual activities or another person performing sexual activities on them.
The following may indicate a child is being sexually exploited:
! Bruising on their arms or body ! Regularly using drugs or drinking alcohol ! Mood swings, aggression towards others or always tired
! Truancy or a drop in performance at school
Quite often, young people who've been sexually exploited don't see themselves as victims. That's because victims are groomed to believe that they are in a relationship with the offender. The offender might threaten to end the relationship if young people refuse to have sex or perform sex acts. They might also bribe young people with money or gifts in return for sexual contact. When abuse takes place online, offenders sometimes request sexual photos or videos of young people. They then can threaten to share those images if they don't carry out more sex acts.
! Self-harm – eg cutting or eating disorders ! Change in appearance, or borrowing clothes from others
! Unexplained relationships with older people ! Staying out late, not returning home ! They have unexplained gifts, expensive clothes, mobile phones
! Unexplained money, frequently taking part in activities requiring money
Victims of child sexual exploitation often don't want to talk to people such as guardians, carers or those in a professional authority because they worry about the consequences to the offender.
If you are aged 18 or younger and think you are, or have been, sexually exploited, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101. If you are a parent or carer or someone in a position of authority, and think a child you know is being sexually exploited, it is really important you contact the police.
Child sexual exploitation can happen in every town and village across North Yorkshire. It does happen in our county and we want to reassure the community that this 'hidden crime' is a priority for North Yorkshire Police. We also need to make sure that everyone recognises the signs of child sexual exploitation so we can prevent it at the earliest stage possible.
If you think someone is in immediate danger, always dial 999. If you are worried about a child and don't want to speak to the police then you can call the NSPCC for information advice on 0808 800 5000 If you are under 18 you can call ChildLine on 0800 1111 You can report any suspicious online behaviour or activity by calling or texting 11 6000
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North Yorkshire Police treat all reports of rape and sexual assault seriously. Victims will be treated with dignity and respect throughout the process.
Sexual Assault Referral Centre
North Yorkshire Police will fully investigate all reports of rape and sexual assault. They will seek action against any person(s) identified as being responsible for the offence committed against you. Your case will be assigned to an officer (OIC) who will be your point of contact throughout the investigation.
Bridgehouse
A specially trained officer will obtain as much information from you as possible regarding the incident. This may be done on a written statement or visually recorded on a DVD. They will explain the police process and actions to you. They will provide you with updates regarding the case including any bail conditions of the suspect.
Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) After your initial contact at Bridge House the staff there will discuss the ISVA service with you. ISVAs offer longer term emotional and practical support by accessing your needs.
Support is available through the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). Officers can refer the victim to the SARC Co-ordinator for a follow up call to discuss the range of support available. Victims can access ISVA support through the SARC Co-ordinator.
Your ISVA will be able to help you come to terms with what has happened to you and will provide the support which is best for you. Should you decide to report to the police, your ISVA will be the link between you and the police investigation.
Bridge House Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)
If you have been a victim of rape or sexual assault then call the police on 101.
Self-Referral Service Bridge House is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre dedicated to dealing with victims of rape and sexual assault.
Alternatively, if you don't want to report the incident to the police, you can access support and advice from Bridge House, North Yorkshire's Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).
If you are unsure about reporting the incident to the Police, you can contact Bridge House to discuss your options.
Telephone the SARC on 01904 669339 and leave a confidential message and someone from the centre will call you back, or email
[email protected]
Bridge House enables victims to receive an informed choice, ensuring that early forensic evidence, guidance and support can be provided by specially trained staff. This enables a victim to make an informed choice about the options they have.
Information and advice is also available from the website: www.turntobridgehouse.org
A referral to the ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advisor) and counselling is offered including referrals to sexual health clinics.
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Information about different types of crime
Information about different types of crime
Cybercrime
Bogus callers and distraction burglary
Modern Technology such as mobile devices and international computer gaming is now a part of everyday modern society.
Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But sometimes, people turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into your home. They are known as 'bogus callers' or 'distraction burglars', whose only aim is to get into your home by distracting you to steal money or valuables.
Demand for quick time information, purchasing and instant online social activity is widespread across the globe – as is, unfortunately, the opportunity for Cybercrime. More and more criminals are exploiting the speed, convenience and anonymity of the internet to commit a diverse range of criminal activity. Cybercrime has many guises and much of it consists of traditional types of crime being committed - or partly committed – online, for example bullying and harassment, financial and identity fraud, sexual abuse and exploitation.
Identity fraud is also a significant threat to adults, with criminals piecing together personal and financial information from various websites and apps.
By taking a few simple security measures and thinking carefully about what information you are putting online, the chances of becoming a victim of cybercrime can be reduced dramatically.
Make sure you check the validity of sites if you are purchasing items or booking holidays, never provide bank details via email if you are not one hundred percent sure of the receiver of your email, and always make sure you know who you are talking to online.
Familiarise yourselves with security software such as full security software packages which provide virus scans, a firewall spam filtering and parental controls, and then anti-virus scanners and malware removal software which scan your devices for infections and remove them.
More tips to keep you safe
! You could put a 'no cold callers' sign up on your door or window, which should deter any cold callers from knocking on your door
! If you're not sure who is at your door, don't open it! Follow the Lock, Stop, Chain and Check advice
Bogus callers sometimes work in pairs or even teams and are often well organised. One will distract you while the other searches the house for money or other valuables. They can be men, women or children (or often a combination). Watch out for anyone who says they are in a hurry. Don't let them pressure or confuse you.
! Telephone a neighbour or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them
! Some areas in the country have Neighbourhood Watch or Nominated Neighbour Schemes you can sign up to. Check with your local police team to find out if there is one in your area
Bogus callers may pose as water, electricity or gasboard workers, council workers or even police officers. Always ask the caller for their identification, and check it, before letting them in. Use the phone number in the phone book, not the one on their identity card. Remember, a genuine caller will happily wait outside while you check on them by calling their organisation and or calling a family member or neighbour.
! Many utility service providers like gas, electricity and water, provide password schemes or hotline numbers for customers to call so you can check the identity of callers before opening the door. Speak to your utility provider for more details and set up a password today
! Don't keep large quantities of cash at home; put it in the bank or post office where it is safe
To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this crime, remember the following four steps: North Yorkshire Police recommend the following websites for helpful information and advice about online security:
Parental controls are key in keeping your family safe online. They are available through your internet provider and are a quick and easy way of preventing children from accessing inappropriate sites on the internet. What is vitally important, however, is to talk to children and young people about their online activity. Whether it's Facebook or Facetime, Snapchat or Skype, or online gaming and shopping, it is important you have basic knowledge of how these apps and sites work. This can help you to understand any potential threats and talk to your children about them.
www.cyberstreetwise.co.uk www.getsafeonline.org You can find more information on the North Yorkshire Police website Cybercrime page:
! Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times, even when you're at home. Always keep your door chain on
! LOCK all doors - even when you are at home ! STOP before you open the door, ask them who
! If somebody asks for your help, needs to make
they are
a telephone call, has lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or requests a pen and paper for example, refer them to a younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door, or call a friend or neighbour to come and assist
! CHAIN always use a door chain or spy hole ! CHECK not sure who they are - don't open the door!
www.northyorkshire.police.uk/cybercrime
If you suspect a bogus caller has visited you, even if you didn't let them in, call the police straight away. We need to know!
It is not just children and young people who fall victim to online exploitation, many adults do too. North Yorkshire Police are receiving an increasing number of reports about individuals on dating sites who have been tricked to sending money to a potential partner, only to find out that person was in fact a criminal.
Phone 999 if you're suspicious or the caller won't leave. Call the police non-emergency number 101 if you're not in immediate danger but want to report an incident.
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Information about different types of crime
Get in touch
Contact details
Hate crime
North Yorkshire Police
Hate crime is any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by a hostility or prejudice based on a person’s:
If you have been victim of a hate crime, you can report it to; North Yorkshire Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency
! Disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender: or
! Perceived disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender Hate Crime inflicts great psychological distress on a victim and victims can suffer post-traumatic stress symptoms such as depression, anxiety and anger. Violence and harassment often takes place as part of hate crimes, often over sustained and prolonged periods of time with long term physical effects on victims, children and families.
Supporting Victims on 01609 643100
! Visit: www.northyorkshire.police.uk
Alternatively, you can contact the Stop Hate UK helpline by calling 0800 138 1625
! Twitter: @NYorksPolice ! Facebook: www.facebook.com/NorthYorkshirePolice
You can also email
[email protected] or text (at your standard network rate) at 07717 989 025
You can also pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
If you are deaf or have speech or hearing impairments, you can use text relay on: 18001 138 1625 Finally, you can chat live to a Stop Hate UK operator online at: www.stophateuk.org/talk-to-us
Hate crime can take many forms including:
If you are in immediate danger, always call 999 To report a crime or incident, please call North Yorkshire Police on the non-emergency number 101.
Supporting Victims Supporting Victims helps people living in North Yorkshire to cope and recover after crime, and get their lives back to normal as soon as possible.
! Phone: 01609 643100 Monday - Friday 8am - 7pm
Physical attacks - such as physical assault,
! Email:
[email protected]
damage to property, offensive graffiti, neighbour disputes and arson
! Visit: www.supportingvictims.org When you contact Stop Hate UK, the operator will give you advice about whether what has happened to you is a hate crime offence. If it is, the operator will take details about the offence and pass it on to us at North Yorkshire Police and other support agencies, with your consent.
Threat of attack - including offensive letters, abusive or obscene telephone calls, groups hanging around to intimidate and unfounded, malicious complaints
Verbal abuse or insults - offensive leaflets and posters, abusive gestures, dumping of rubbish outside homes or through letterboxes, and bullying at school or in the workplace
If you prefer, you can remain anonymous. If so, the operator will provide basic details about what happened to the police so we know that an incident occurred, but your personal details will stay confidential.
Social media - offensive comments and bullying posted on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.
If you run a voluntary or community group, or if you deal with vulnerable people in your work, you can help us to stop hate crime by making people aware of the Stop Hate UK telephone helpline.
Everyone has the right to live without fear of abuse whether verbal, physical or sexual, and to live in their homes without fearing damage to their property.
! Twitter: @Support4Victims ! Facebook: www.facebook.com/SupportingVictims If you need help outside of these hours, you can call the National Victim Information Line on 0808 16 89 293.
North Yorkshire Witness Care Unit Phone 01609 643101, alternatively you can phone 101, press option 2 and ask for Witness Care.
Police and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire ! Phone: 01423 569562 ! Email:
[email protected] ! Visit: www.northyorkshire-pcc.gov.uk ! Twitter: @northyorkspcc
Translation into another language This booklet is available on the North Yorkshire Police website as a PDF document. You can download the booklet and convert the PDF into a word document and then translate through Google's translator.
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Published by North Yorkshire Police Issued: November 2016 Re-Order Ref: NYP16-0020
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