Annual Victims’ Survey 2023

This report highlights key findings, including low victim confidence and satisfaction with the criminal justice system. This is compounded by victim experiences of poor communication, long waits for justice and a lack of referrals for support. Worryingly, the research also shows that disabled victims report poorer treatment within the justice system and are less likely to report a crime in future.

• The report explores victims’ experiences with the criminal justice system over the past three years.
• 3,048 victims from across England and Wales completed the survey, the largest one undertaken by the Victims’ Commissioner to date.
• The report makes 15 recommendations aimed at improving the victim experience.

Commenting on the report and its findings, the Victims’ Commissioner, Baroness Newlove, said:

“Who you are should not and must not dictate the treatment you receive as a victim, nor your chances at justice. It is of great concern to me that certain victim groups face significant hurdles. When responding to my survey, victims repeatedly told me little is done by police when they first report a crime — or that the investigation is quietly abandoned at a later stage. They also reported that they struggle to access support, face delays and are left guessing about the status of their case. This poor treatment leaves many victims feeling like an afterthought, with long delays in the court system compounding frustrations further.”

• Read the news story
• Read the Victims’ Commissioner’s blog
• Download the full data file
• Access an easy-read version of the report