Young Victims of Crime Express Distrust in Justice System Amid Government Consultation
As the government launches a consultation into the Victims' Code, it has admitted that many children and young people are struggling to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system following crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual violence. This revelation comes amid growing concerns that young victims often feel unheard and mistreated by authorities.
Voices from the Classroom: Personal Stories of Fear and Disillusionment
Sky News recently observed a visit by Alex Davies-Jones, the minister for victims and tackling violence against women and girls, to All Saints School in Stepney, east London. During this meeting, sixth-form students shared harrowing accounts that highlight a pervasive culture of fear and eroded trust in the system designed to protect them.
One student, whose identity is protected due to his age, recounted being stopped and searched on his way to school at just 13 years old. He described the incident as distressing, noting that officers provided no clear explanation and failed to contact his parents. Another student expressed a sense of vulnerability, stating, "Anyone can be attacked at any moment, especially at night. People cover up (using balaclavas) and you don't really know their identity, so you have to be wary."
A third student shared how her sister's phone was stolen in a crowded shop, and when reported, the police responded that there was "not much they could do." This left her with little confidence in the police's ability to assist. Additionally, one young person emphasised the need for a cultural shift, arguing that the stigma around "snitching" must be addressed to encourage more victims to come forward.
Government Proposals to Rebuild Trust and Support Young Victims
In response to these concerns, the government's consultation on the Victims' Code includes several key proposals aimed at improving support for young victims. These measures are designed to ensure that children and young people are better informed and more involved in the justice process.
- More direct contact with police and probation officers, alongside parents, for individuals aged 12 and above.
- Ensuring young people feel safer while navigating the justice system.
- Implementing measures to encourage all victims to see their cases through to trial and beyond.
- Launching an Understand Your Rights campaign across England and Wales to promote awareness of the Victims' Code.
After listening to the students in Stepney, Ms Davies-Jones acknowledged the government faces a "big job" in rebuilding trust. She told Sky News, "What we heard today from the young people, their lived experience of crime was truly quite shocking. They weren't believed. They were targeted themselves as potential criminals rather than victims and witnesses." She stressed the importance of treating young victims with dignity, regardless of their age.
Broader Reforms and Support for Child Victims
The proposed updates to the Victims' Code also include new fundamental principles and training for justice agencies to enhance communication with victims. Compliance with the code would be enshrined in law, and the victims' commissioner would be granted enhanced powers to hold agencies accountable for any shortcomings.
Rachel D'Souza, the Children's Commissioner for England, welcomed the consultation, highlighting its potential to strengthen children's rights. She said, "Too many children tell me the justice system can be bewildering or even traumatising. Child victims need to know their rights, to be listened to, to be treated with dignity and care, and to get the support they are entitled to." She expressed hope that these changes would drive meaningful improvements in practice.
This initiative underscores the urgent need to address the gaps in support for young crime victims, fostering a justice system that is more responsive and trustworthy for all.
