VICTIMS of crime in Somerset are being invited to give feedback of their experience of the justice system by Avon and Somerset Police.

The call comes as a new Code of Practice for Victims of Crime, intended to improve the criminal justice process for those affected by crime, comes into force nationwide.

Victims will now be legally entitled to make a victim personal statement, or VPS, to explain how they were affected.

Businesses will also be able to set out how they have been impacted by crime.

Sue Mountstevens, Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “I want to give all victims a louder voice, and I feel the Victims Code of Practice is an important development in ensuring that victims receive the best service, tailored to their individual needs, to help them with their recovery.

“I am particularly supportive of Victim Personal Statements which enable victims' voices to be heard, truly putting them at the heart of the criminal justice system.

"I am currently consulting with victims on their experiences of the criminal justice system and would encourage people to share them with me.”