ACS welcomes stronger voice for businesses in new victims of crime code
The Association of Convenience Stores has welcomed new proposals from the Ministry of Justice on the Code of Practice for victims of crime which sets out new support for businesses.
In response to the original Victims Code consultation, “Getting it Right for Victim and Witnesses”, ACS called for the use of Victim Personal Statements to be extended to all businesses, not just small businesses. ACS also called for the creation of a new tool specifically for businesses to report the impact of crime on them and their staff.
The new Code outlines a range of new proposals, including extra support for victims of the most serious crimes, those who are persistently targeted and the most vulnerable victims. It also offers specialist help to young victims and, for the first time, gives businesses the opportunity to tell the court how a crime has impacted them.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “The impact of crime on convenience stores and their staff cannot be underestimated. In 2012, burglaries and robberies cost retailers in excess of £20 million and caused untold emotional harm to employees. We are pleased that the Ministry of Justice has listened to our concerns and amended the Victims Code to better reflect the concerns of businesses.
“The proposed business impact statement will allow retailers to reflect the long term impact on their businesses financially, operationally and emotionally for their staff.”
