Crown Prosecution Service
Jackie Scholes is from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). She provides the link between VIP, the CPS and the other criminal justice agencies. Jackie ensures a smooth operation between the problems surrounding victims and witnesses and their needs and the needs of the prosecution team to ensure a successful case. Jackie also makes sure that victims of very serious crimes and their families receive the support and attention they need.
Youth Offending Team
YOT employee Jane Arnold and Social Worker Karen Burgess make up the Youth Offending Team's membership at VIP. Jane and Karen deal with issues surrounding youth offenders and the impact their behaviour has on their victims. They might arrange for victims to have a say in any restorative element to an offender's sentence, for example repairing or paying for damaged property. The YOT team works closely with the police to determine whether a court appearance is appropriate or whether a Reprimand or a Final Warning may be issued.
Probation Service
Michelle O'Brien is the Probation Service Officer assigned to VIP. It is the responsibility of the Probation Service to engage with victims of offenders who have received 12 months or more imprisonment for violent or sexual crime. This will often mean ensuring that victims know where a defendant is imprisoned and when there are any parole or release dates for the offender, including what geographical area they might be released to. Michelle is supported by admin assistant Shirley Smith.
Victim Support
Victim Support has one member of staff within VIP. Wendy Charles, who has been a Victim Support/Witness Service worker for many years, links in with all staff contained within the unit to ensure that victims involved in the criminal justice system are fully supported. Where appropriate, Wendy will arrange pre trial visits for victims and witnesses, and also provide a personal confidential support service with a victim utilising, if necessary, the confidential conference suite within VIP in order to discuss any personal issues surrounding the crime and the effects of crime on individuals.
Anti-Social Behaviour co-ordinator
There is also an Anti-Social Behaviour (ASBO) co-ordinator within the unit. PC Claire Clayton co-ordinates ASBO cases and addresses any ASBO breaches. She links in with the County Council solicitor in order to maintain knowledge and information on all ASBOs granted. Claire will also support those who may be asked to give evidence in court if an ASBO has been breached.
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