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Publication of the Final Code of Practice on Victim Information Requests under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022

01 December 2025

Proposing MP
Birmingham Yardley
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Home Office

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the publication of the final Code of Practice under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, which defines counselling services and sets out guidelines for requesting victim information.

Action Requested

The government has defined 'counselling services' broadly to ensure all therapeutic support is covered by higher safeguards. The draft Code of Practice will be laid before Parliament with a consultation response published on Gov.uk. New duties will take effect on January 12, 2026.

Key Facts

  • The Victims and Prisoners Act 2024 introduced new duties for police.
  • Counselling services are defined broadly in regulations under section 44A of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022.
  • The final Code of Practice has been laid before Parliament as a draft on 12 January 2026.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy