Geraldine Hanna and Naomi Long

The “These are your rights” campaign was formally launched on Sunday by justice minister Naomi Long in partnership with the commissioner-designate for victims of crime, Geraldine Hanna.

Some of the key rights being promoted include referrals to free, confidential services; information on decisions relating to your case; requesting a court familiarisation visit; and having the opportunity to tell the court how the crime has harmed you.

Mrs Long said: “I recognise that being the victim of crime or a witness to crime can be traumatic and that the criminal justice system can be daunting to navigate.

“This campaign seeks to raise awareness of both the Victim Charter and the Witness Charter, so you know where to turn for the support and information you need.

“The charters set out your rights including to be treated with dignity and respect, to be told about available support, provided with all the information you need and given an opportunity for your concerns to be addressed. These are your rights.”

Ms Hanna said: “Many of the victims I have spoken to have told me of their challenging experiences in the criminal justice system.

“It is my hope that this campaign will help to reassure victims and witnesses that they do have rights. Those rights exist so that victims can be understood, protected and supported by the agencies and service providers they encounter on their journey through the justice system.”

The campaign, which is available on YouTube, will also run across local TV, digital channels, social media and newspapers in the coming weeks.