Okies. joko, no probs.
Maisie, before looking at other forms of redress you need to confirm whether compensation for the stolen phone was an issue raised and heard in court.
This starts at the investigation stage by the police who should complete the relevant forms (form MG19), which informs the Crown Prosecution Service that you seek to make a claim for compo if an offender is convicted (in this case, a theft, which qualifies).
The police forward the case papers to the CPS, 'CROWN' Prosecution Service who primarily prosecute criminal offences hence, Regina V 'defendants name'. If the police forget to submit the MG19 or believe its not an issue for some daft reason the CPS usually enquire with the Officer in charge of the case (OIC) to confirm whether this has been omitted etc. As long as the CPS are informed that it is an issue then the matter will be raised at the court hearings.
New Judge has posted a summary and a web-link that clearly provides evidence that the criminal courts are concerned with compo for victims of crime, despite what othes may think .
I would first contact the police and ask that the OIC contact you and ask him whether he submitted a claim for compensation, (Form MG19), if yes but did not attend court nor given full update of trial by CPS then ask him to contact the CPS and get back to you with the answer. If no joy from the police then contact the CPS yourself. (I would guess that the VS worker is based at the CPS offices hence the heading of her email address etc) , wh