Category: News Story
Victims’ Commissioner backs Law Commission’s call for major courtroom reforms in rape cases
Proposed measures include introducing legal advice and representation for complainants, reform of rules of evidence to address myths and misconceptions about sexual violence, and specialist sexual offences courts.
£53m for domestic abuse perpetrators welcomed – but calls grow for action on victim services
“While prevention is important, it is only one part of the puzzle,” says Baroness Newlove, as she reiterates calls for the forthcoming government strategy to prioritise specialist victim services, including those for victims of sexual violence.
Troubling number of London victims are walking away from justice process, new report finds
The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, has welcomed a new report exposing the scale of victim attrition in London, warning that too many victims are still being left to navigate a complex and distressing process without the support they need.
Leveson review welcomed, but victims still face years of delays
“There is no credible alternative – but even this may fall short of what’s truly needed,” says Baroness Newlove as she calls for greater investment in court capacity and victim support.
Baroness Newlove: Focus on high street safety welcomed – but support for ASB victims in residential areas must remain a priority
As Anti-social Behaviour Awareness Week draws to a close, the Victims’ Commissioner has welcomed new Government action to tackle incidents in town centres – while urging policymakers not to overlook the experiences of victims facing persistent anti-social behaviour (ASB) in their homes.
Victims given a voice in Mental Health Tribunal hearings as new reform comes into force
Reform delivers on the Victims’ Commissioner’s long-standing campaign to give victims a voice in cases involving mentally disordered offenders.
Yet another grim milestone as Crown Court backlog reaches unprecedented levels
“Victims should not bear the burden alone” – Commissioner sounds alarm as key services face closure amid funding cuts despite record Crown Court backlog.
PM warned he will miss target to halve violence against women without urgent investment
The Prime Minister has been warned he is on course to miss his own target of halving violence against women and girls, as vital support services are being “pushed to the brink” by funding cuts and soaring costs.
Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme: Fresh calls for reform after review dropped
Government decision to drop Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme review sparks renewed demands for urgent reform from victims, campaigners and MPs.
Victims’ Commissioner set to gain strengthened oversight role under proposed reforms
New powers proposed in the Victims and Courts Bill would expand the Commissioner’s ability to scrutinise compliance with the Victims’ Code and improve agency accountability.