171.Section 3D of the 2014 Act makes provision for victims to be informed by the police of their right to request a referral to victim support services, or to contact such services directly. Section 52 enhances this right by requiring the police to inform victims that victim support services are available, and what is meant by victim support services – with reference to the definition set out in section 3D(5). In addition, they will be required to inform the victim that they are entitled to have their details passed to appropriate victim support services so that those services may contact the victim. The victim must also be informed of their right to discontinue the services in the future should they wish to do so. The replacement subsection (2), inserted by section 52(2)(b), makes further provision about this process. Where the victim decides to contact the services directly, the police will be required to provide the necessary information for the victim to do so. New subsection (2A) being inserted by section 52(2)(b) makes further provision about this process.
172.Section 50(2)(e) inserts new subsections (4A) and (4B) into section 3D. The new subsections require the chief constable to produce guidance for police constables in relation to the referral of victims to support services, and to keep that guidance under review.
Crown Application Part 3 – Victims’ Rights to Receive Information Section 52 – right to referral by Police Scotland to victim support services