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Sexual offences are devastating crimes. Anyone can be a victim of this type of offending and we in the PPS see the lasting impact sexual offences have on victims, their families and wider society every day.
Victims can be particularly vulnerable and we understand that it takes courage to report a sexual offence to the police. We also know that the criminal justice process is slow and many still find the experience difficult and sometimes confusing.
As prosecutors, we have a duty to be fair and impartial and to take decisions only in line with the Test for Prosecution set out in our Code for Prosecutors. Regardless of the outcome of their case, we want all victims to feel listened to and treated with respect and sensitivity.
This PPS Policy for Prosecuting Sexual Offences provides guidance to the public about how we take decisions and the assistance given to victims and witnesses during the prosecution process.