Learning Pathway
SHE Voice™ — Women’s Safety initiative by Kulturalism
Clear, accessible guidance for victims and survivors navigating the justice system.
Most victims face an unfamiliar system filled with uncertainty.
What will happen next? Will I be updated? What are my rights? What if the police don’t act? How do I stay safe?
This pathway explains every step — in simple language — and links to practical resources that can support you along the way.
Stage 2 — Police Investigation and Your Rights
The investigation process:
→Taking your full statement - You can have someone with you when you give your statement
→Collection of evidence
→Witness enquiries
→Suspect interview
→Case review
Your rights under the Victims’ Code:
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To be kept informed
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To receive updates at key stages
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To request special measures
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To make a Victim Personal Statement
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To be referred for support
Stage 3 — Charging Decisions
Possible outcomes:
→No further action (NFA)
→Out-of-court disposal
→Charge
→Bail conditions
Released Under Investigation (RUI) – police should update you regularly (aiming for every 28 days in many forces), and you can request more info anytime.
Further investigation needed
Your rights:
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To be told the decision
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To request a victim’s right to review (VRR)
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To ask questions about delays
Stage 4 — Going to Court as a Victim
Going to Court as a Victim
→ FREE Going to Court as a Victim handbook
What victims need to know:
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How cases move from charging → court
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Where you will sit
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Special measures
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Waiting areas
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Giving evidence
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Cross-examination
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Sentencing
Additional resources:
→ Kulturalism posters (Make Some Noise / Break the Violence)
Stage 5 — After Court: What Happens Next
If the defendant is convicted:
→Prison
→Community sentence
→Probation supervision
→Restraining orders
→Sentencing remarks
→Eligibility for victim contact scheme
If the defendant is acquitted:
→Your right to explanation
→Victim support options
→How to stay safe
If the case is discontinued:
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The right to review
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The right to information
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Emotional and practical support
Even if there is no conviction or the case is dropped, you can still get strong legal protection.
You can apply directly to a civil or family court for a Non-Molestation Order, Stalking Protection Order, or injunction. These orders can stop the person contacting you, coming near you, or harassing you — and breaking one is a criminal offence with up to 5 years in prison. Many victims get these orders within days and legal aid is often free. You do not need a police case or a guilty verdict to keep yourself safe.
→ More information & how to apply: gov.uk/injunction-domestic-violence
Further Information & External Guidance
These trusted sources provide clear, official information to help you understand what happens after court and what your rights are going forward.
→ Sentencing Council Guidelines
Understand how sentences are decided and what factors judges must consider.
(Sentencing Council – official guidance)
→ Compensation for Victims of Crime (CICA)
Information about making a compensation claim and eligibility.
(UK Government – Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority)
→ Your Right to Review (Victims’ Right to Challenge)
If you believe a charging decision or no-further-action decision was wrong, you can ask for it to be reviewed.
(CPS Victims’ Right to Review – official process)
→ Your Right to Information (Victims’ Code)
Details on what updates you should receive, from the police and the CPS.
(Victims’ Code – UK Government guidance)
→ Protective Orders for Stalking & Harassment
Information on stalking protection orders (SPOs) and court protections.
(Home Office / Gov.uk official stalking guidance)
More Information can be found → SHE Voice