VICTIM Support Scotland (VSS), a leading organisation for victims and witnesses, very much welcomes the Scottish Parliament’s vote to pass the Victims and Witnesses (Scotland) Bill.
Says a spokesperson: “This is the most significant development for victims and witnesses of crime for a generation.”
Alan McCloskey, a/deputy chief executive of VSS, said: “The new Act will be a very important step forward towards improving the position of victims and witnesses in Scotland.
“For the first time ever, crucial rights for victims will be enshrined in law such as rights to receive information, support, safety and protection.
“We have campaigned long and hard on a number of priority areas in the new legislation, such as the protection of special measures in court and the provision of a Victim Surcharge Fund, which are critical to improving the outcomes for people affected by crime.
“We deal with 180,000 people hit by crime every year and we see clearly how much they suffer. We believe that this new legislation is an important start in reducing that suffering.”
PRESS RELEASE issued by Victim Support Scotland. You too can post your story ideas for journalists (aka press or media releases), on allmediascotland.com. Email info@allmediascotland.com for more information.
Contact: David Sinclair
Email: david.sinclair@victimsupportsco.org.uk
Website: http://www.victimsupportsco.org.uk
