VICTIMS of crime have been receiving “unsatisfactory” letters from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), a report reveals today.

Only 75 of the 340 letters inspected by HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate met the quality standard expected.

Nearly half of these were rated by inspectors as being not empathetic enough, the report into the effectiveness of Victim Liaison Units (VLUs) found.

Too many letters contained spelling mistakes that could have been picked up if they were properly proof-read. Some were wrongly addressed and incorrect cases were also identified.

VLUs were set up by the CPS in 2014 to provide a “dedicated and professional service” so that victims receive high-quality, timely, effective and empathetic letters.

Legal managers had not received training in drafting or responding to complaints, inspectors also found.

Although staff in the VLUs are committed to providing a quality service, inspectors say there was not an effective level of quality assurance in place, meaning too many letters were not meeting the standard expected.

Chief inspector Kevin McGinty said it is “to be regretted” that the report highlights shortcomings and that victims should be treated sympathetically.

“This includes ensuring that they are given the right information about decisions made about their case and that the information should be given in way that can be understood and which shows respect and empathy,” he said.

The CPS must consider the findings and take “all necessary action” to ensure victims receive the level of service they have been promised and “rightly expect,” Mr McGinty added.