A new website which will help victims of crime find the latest information about their case at any time of the day or night is being launched to police forces.

TrackMyCrime will allow people who report a crime to follow it through the investigation stage easily and securely, exchange messages with their investigating officer to make sure they are up to date with how the case is progressing, and have their questions answered quickly.

The service was developed by Avon and Somerset Constabulary and bought by the Ministry of Justice at the start of 2014. Some forces are already using it and others should be coming online this year.

Launching it at the inaugural International Crime and Police Conference yesterday, Victims' Minister Mike Penning said: 'TrackMyCrime gives victims more control over their case and allows them to find out information in a way and at a time that suits them. I look forward to seeing police forces across the country adopting it.'

TrackMyCrime will keep victims updated on the progress of their case, allow them to submit changes or information about stolen or damaged property, and find information on support and advice. Officers and victims can securely exchange messages with one another at any time and police can regularly update victims on the progress of the case.

The website will not replace speaking to a police officer in person, but will give people more choice about how and when they can get information about their case. It is expected it will reduce the volume of calls to the non-emergency 101 number. 

The Home Secretary also announced that the Home Office will work with police forces to develop a prototype for people to report non-emergency crime on http://www.police.uk">www.police.uk.