We know that the process of reporting a crime, and everything that follows, can be a confusing, worrying, and sometimes frightening experience.
The Commissioner wants every person affected by crime to feel in control and be informed about what is happening to them, and what’s to come.
Criminal Justice and You is an online resource featuring videos about every step of the criminal justice process, from reporting a crime to when a case goes to court, or what happens if it doesn’t.
Crucially, the resource also contains a video about reporting a rape or sexual offence, including what happens at a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). Our hope is that by demystifying this process, people affected by these types of crimes will feel empowered to report and bring offenders to justice.
Watch the video below to find out more about Criminal Justice and You:
Criminal Justice and You, which was developed by the Commissioner’s office in collaboration with the Local Criminal Justice Board (LCJB), was promoted at a dedicated justice themed session focused on justice at the West Country Women’s International Women’s Day 2026 event in Plymouth.
The programme brought together more than 200 participants from across the region to explore how violence against women and girls can be tackled.
The Commissioner supported the event through funding from the Ministry of Justice, and hosted a session highlighting practical actions being taken locally, including work to improve the experience of victims and witnesses within the criminal justice system.
Alongside this, the event also showcased wider initiatives funded or supported by the Commissioner, including the Let’s Talk programme, which focuses on equipping parents and carers with the knowledge to support young people and address risks such as unhealthy relationships and online harm.
By bringing together partner organisations and highlighting both frontline services and practical tools, the event reinforced a whole-system approach to supporting victims, ensuring they are better informed, better supported, and able to access the help they need.