Category: News Story
New guidance launched for families bereaved abroad – but legislative gaps remain
The Ministry of Justice has published a new information guide for families bereaved by homicide abroad, a move designed to assist those navigating the complex aftermath of a death overseas.
Claire Waxman takes office as Victims’ Commissioner
New Victims' Commissioner vows to put victim's voice ‘front and centre' as she warns survivors are 'bearing the brunt' of a justice system under unprecedented pressure.
Fewer than half of victims believe they can get justice, finds Victims’ Commissioner
The Victims' Commissioner's landmark victim survey reveals widespread low confidence in the justice system: fewer than half of victims (42%) believe they can get justice, while just 46% are confident in its effectiveness and only 51% in its fairness.
New research to examine unique challenges faced by victims of road traffic collisions
A new victim survey has been launched to better understand the experiences of victims of road traffic collisions.
Disabled victims face hurdles at every step of the justice process, Victims’ Commissioner review finds
An independent review – commissioned by the Victims’ Commissioner and undertaken by a leading academic – highlights the ways in which criminal justice systems fall short in supporting Disabled victims and sets out practical reforms.
Claire Waxman named as next Victims’ Commissioner
Claire Waxman will succeed Baroness Newlove as Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, assuming the role in the new year.
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.