GovWire

The Framework has been developed to update the information previously held in the PI 48 2014 Victim Contact Scheme Guidance Manual, which has now been decommissioned.

This Policy Framework sets out the mandatory actions and guidance which His Majestys Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) must complete for all victims eligible for services under the Victim Contact Scheme (VCS).

This framework confirms and clarifies current practices that are outlined within existing policy frameworks, and policy guidance and combines these policies and processes into one victim focused policy framework for HM Prison and Probation Service practitioners.

This framework will:

• define the criteria within which individuals should be offered the VCS
• provide practitioners, including those within prisons, with clear instructions on key stages within the VCS and their responsibilities under the VCS
• provide VLOs with clear instructions on key stages within the VCS and information which should generally be communicated to the VCS member
• define the stages at which VCS members can make representations, including in respect of additional licence conditions, and if applicable in a Victim Personal Statement for the Parole Board
• ensure that all eligible victims are provided with clear and relevant information to which they are entitled as specified in the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime in England and Wales.

All mandatory actions in this framework reflect the legislation and the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime in England and Wales.

This Policy Framework replaces PI 48/2014 Victim Contact Scheme Guidance Manual and PI 03/2017 Probation Victim Contact Service - Non-Statutory Cases.