Crown Prosecution Service: Standards

(asked on 7th February 2022) - View Source

Question to the Attorney General:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the effectiveness of the Crown Prosecution Service in ensuring access to justice for victims of crime.


Answered by
Lord Stewart of Dirleton Portrait
Lord Stewart of Dirleton
Advocate General for Scotland
This question was answered on 21st February 2022

Her Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) is currently conducting a programme of CPS Area specific inspections to assess casework quality and treatment of victims and witnesses. These inspections have recognised some good work in what continues to be a very challenging environment. The CPS recognise that they still need to improve on their work with victims and witnesses and have commissioned a significant piece of research to better understand victims’ needs. The findings of this research will be used to inform their future work on improving communications with victims.

The CPS will also apply for special measures available to assist victims and witnesses to give their best evidence, this includes the use of court appointed intermediaries, screens and in certain cases pre-recording a victim’s evidence.

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