Outcomes for victims of low-level crime and anti-social behaviour are set to improve by allowing them to have a greater say in offender sanctions.

Community Remedy gives victims a voice on how offenders should be dealt with by the police. The suitability of the options will depend on the nature of the offence, the age of the offender and the circumstances of the situation.

Last year the Government changed the framework of penalties, warnings and cautions which can be given to those who take part in the programme.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd is now carrying out a public consultation to find out what out-of-court sanctions residents want to see included within an updated Community Remedy document for Hertfordshire.

The survey is seeking to determine how well the public understand the Out Of Court Disposal system and if they have ever been through the process.

It asks how those who live and work in Hertfordshire think low-level offenders should be dealt with. Measures include financial reparation, giving a written or verbal apology, a Localised Behaviour Agreement, Restorative Justice or a local rehabilitative or diversionary activity.

The survey is open now at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CL7Z7HJ and it will close at midnight on Monday October 23^rd 2023.

The Community Remedy can be used when an offender admits to their part in the incident or crime and is willing to be dealt with by the process.  The offence type and the offender’s previous history must be suitable and this is the decision of the police officer who deals with the incident.

Victims will be asked their opinion on which options, from the Community Remedy, they think would be most appropriate to the offender in their incident. The police officer dealing with the incident will make the final decision as to what is appropriate ensuring it is proportionate to the offence committed and will have a positive impact the victim.