A Cumbrian MP has welcomed new measures to support rape victims.
Victims will receive enhanced support at three Crown Court centres under a new pilot scheme launched by the Government as part of efforts to drive up prosecutions and convictions and make sure victims get the justice they deserve.
All court staff, police and prosecutors working on cases will receive specialist trauma training, and expert at-court support, such as Independent Sexual Violence Advisors, will be available for victims.
The Government says it will use the pilots to learn how to complement ongoing efforts to tackle the backlog and increase the volume and speed of cases going through the system.
Leeds, Newcastle and Snaresbrook Crown Court, in London, have been chosen for the pilots as they are currently dealing with a higher-than-average number of sex offence cases.
Courtrooms will also be equipped with new video technology and be able to take advantage of the rapid rollout of pre-recorded cross-examination for victims of rape. This measure will spare victims, subject to a successful application to the court, the stress of giving evidence during a live trial and has already been introduced at 37 courts.
Alongside this, the Government is continuing to roll out Operation Soteria, a new approach to investigating rape that focuses on the suspects not the victims. It involves academics working with police forces to examine their handling of rape cases and make recommendations for operational changes. It is already in action in five police force areas and will soon be rolled out to a further 14 forces by September.
Over £460 million is being invested in victim support over the next three years, increasing the amount spent per year by 2025 by 92 per cent compared to 2020/21.
Today’s announcement builds on the publication of a draft Victims Bill, which the Government says will amplify victims’ voices and make justice agencies more accountable for the service they deliver.
Barrow and Furness MP Simon Fell said: “Rape is a horrific crime that can have life-long devasting impacts on its victims, which is why it is essential that victims get the best support possible as they seek justice.
“That is why am I really pleased to see the Government pledging a £460 million investment in victims services and introducing new pilots to boost support for rape victims in court, just as new data reveals that rape convictions are up two thirds over the last year.
“This will make sure victims get the help and support they need as those who harm them are put behind bars.”
“As a Member of the Home Affairs Select Committee, we have heard harrowing evidence from victims of rape. It is for all of those victims of such an abhorrent and heinous crime that I welcome these steps. I’ll continue to contribute to this incredibly important policy so that victims of rape needs are more than met, and that suspects are adequately brought to justice.”
