Victims of crime asked to share experiences to shape Bedfordshire support services

The Police and Crime Commissioner, John Tizard, wants to hear from as many people as possible, whether they reported the incident to the police or not.

These responses from the public will be used to find what is working well, what needs to be changed and how agencies can give better support to victims throughout their journey.

Mr Tizard said: "We know that improvements are required across the system. However, the people who know best what is required are those who have been or are victims of crime. Therefore, I am asking you to take ten minutes to complete this survey.”.

He explained: "I want to know why you may not have reported a crime; how you felt you were respected if you did report a crime; your experience of interacting with officers and staff of the police and other criminal justice agencies; and your ideas on how we can make Bedfordshire a victim responsive county.

"The results will inform the final review report and provide me with the evidence to drive change and improvements."

The survey is part of the Police and Crime Commissioner's Victims Review, which looks at services and support available to victims across the county.

The findings will be used to shape improvements in the future and to make sure victims' experiences are at the heart of decision-making.

The survey takes between 10 and 15 minutes to complete and all responses and answers will be anonymous and confidential.

Any information provided will not be shared with Bedfordshire Police or any other agency in a way that could identify respondents.

And victims are reassured that taking part will not affect any current, ongoing or closed investigations, cases or support services.

The survey is open now, and closes on August 17.

You can click here to take part in the survey.

Anyone who needs more support can reach out to Bedfordshire Victim Care Services and charity Victim Support.