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Victim Support

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Many people with a criminal record have, themselves, been the victim of crime. There are also situations in which having a criminal record puts people at risk of becoming a victim of crime.

For example, 59% of women with a criminal record have been a victim of domestic abuse. Whilst women displaying harmful sexual behaviours are likely to have experienced abuse as children.

Sometimes, having been convicted of a crime can make accessing victim support services more complicated. However, at Next Chapter Scotland we have excellent working relationships with a range of victim support organisations, so if you feel uncomfortable reaching out directly to organisations that support victims, we can help you to find a service that will be able to support you in your particular circumstances.

A table with examples of appropriate language use
A table showing the notification periods for the various sentence types. Prison sentence of 30 months or more (including life), Indefinite. Order for lifelong restriction, Indefinite. Admission to a hospital subject to a restriction order, Indefinite. Prison sentence of more than 6 months but less than 30 months, 10 years. Prison sentence of 6 months or less, 7 years. Admission to a hospital without a restriction order, 7 years. Community payback order with an offender supervision requirement, The length of the offender supervision requirement. Any other sentence (e.g. a fine or admonition), 5 years.
Last updated:
August 7, 2025
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