VICTIMS of crime will soon be allowed to confront their offenders in court, under new Government legislation.

Since last year, victims have been given the opportunity to read a personal statement to the court and express how the crime had affected them, but this week Justice Secretary Chris Grayling announced the code would be enshrined in law.

The victim statement, which can be read out by the judge at the end of the trial, is taken into account by the judge when sentencing.

He also said the reforms included the creation of a victims’ information service, which would help to ensure the “highest emphasis” was given to improving the service provided to victims and witnesses.

Julia Mulligan, Police and Crime Commissioner for North Yorkshire, has welcomed the announcement, which she said was already underway in the county, following the first comprehensive analysis of the needs of victims in the region.

She said: “For the first time ever, we now have a comprehensive analysis of the needs of victims in North Yorkshire. This has led me to significantly increase services, particularly for vulnerable victims and victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

“Enshrining the rights of victims in statute is the right thing to do. I am particularly pleased that this new measure covers witnesses, the courts and the Crime Prosecution Service. Our own research locally has shown clearly that there are gaps to be filled. However, perhaps the most important thing of all is to ensure victims can quickly and easily get the practical help they need to cope and recover.”

Other proposals set out this week by the Ministry of Justice included barring publicly-funded lawyers from taking on serious sex offence cases unless they have taken part in specialist training, with other aspects of the victim information service including a helpline and dedicated website, and arrangements in court waiting areas to ensure victims and defendants do not have to wait close together.