WHY?
Being involved with the criminal justice system can be stressful and confusing when people are also coping with the physical and emotional effects of crime, particularly when the person involved has little or no knowledge or experience of the Scottish legal system.
The
Scottish Executive have developed a
Scottish Strategy for Victims and are committed to improving service to victims of crime in many areas.
VIA was set up in recognition of a perceived gap in the information needs of victims and witnesses. VIA is now seen as part of the COPFS modernisation programme and its continuing efforts to become more sensitive and responsive to the needs of victims. By addressing victim and witness needs, VIA also encourages participation in the criminal justice process.
Pilot projects in Aberdeen and Hamilton in 2000 were followed by Victim Information and Advice being officially launched as a COPFS service in June 2002.