.avif)
Victims of crime are being encouraged to share their experiences of the justice journey by taking part in a new survey to help improve future services.
Police and Crime Commissioner for County Durham and Darlington, Joy Allen, and Victims Champion Michael Banks are inviting victims to share their feedback to help theGovernment understand how they can be better supported.
CommissionerAllen is determined to strengthen the victim's voice in policing and has appointed Mr Banks to strengthen engagement with victims of crime and ensure
planning,policy and commissioning decisions reflect their needs and views.
The new national survey will help shape future Government policy and make a difference to the way victims are supported in the future.
Commissioner Allen said: "Crime has a long-lasting emotional impact on its victims and it is important the support and care we provide is in the best interests of the individual and complements the recovery journey.
"Todo this effectively, we need to learn from the experiences of victims and survivors themselves and listen carefully to their needs.
"This is a positive opportunity for people who have experienced the justice system in the past to help shape future services. The information you provide will help the Government build an accurate picture of the justice journey and inform future decisions on resources and funding. Please spare a few minutes to share your views."
Mr Banks added: "As the Police and Crime Commissioner's Victims' Champion, I am a point of contact for victims of crime and I will ensure that their voices are heard in order to locally inform our planning, policies and commissioning of services to support victims.
"This national consultation on improving victims' experiences of the justice system is an opportunity to get our lived experiences and our local views to shape Government policy, enshrined in law, to deliver justice for victims. Please take this opportunity to submit your views and make a real difference to supporting victims of crime".
If you have been a victim of crime have your say by visiting: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/delivering-justice-for-victims-a-consultation-on-improving-victims-experiences-of-the-justice-system
Villagers are celebrating the arrival of new CCTV thanks to a funding grant from Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen.
A recreation shelter used as a positive space for young people to socialise has benefitted from a much-needed revamp.
Thousands of young people across County Durham and Darlington are being invited to share their thoughts on crime and policing.
