Violent crime victims hampered by red tape

[20 November 2008]

Victims of violent crime are being prevented from claiming compensation because of excessive bureaucracy and complex forms.

Less than 5% of those eligible for sums of up to £500,000 are applying, according to the public accounts committee. It also said that two-thirds of victims are unaware of the scheme. The committee has also found that many victims of violent crime spent money on expensive lawyers because they didn't know that free legal help was available.

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Ernest George FINLAY

Offence: Sexual crime

Failure to comply with notification requirements.

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