Category: Statement
Victims given more time to challenge unduly lenient sentences in ‘significant and long‑overdue reform’
Victims and bereaved families will be given significantly more time to challenge sentences they believe do not reflect the seriousness of the crime, following long‑awaited reforms to the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme announced on Thursday 9 April by the Government.
Victims’ Commissioner welcomes Grooming Gangs Inquiry Terms of Reference
The Victims’ Commissioner has welcomed the publication of the Terms of Reference for the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs, describing it as "an important step towards confronting the profound institutional failures” that left children exposed to widespread abuse."
Victims’ Commissioner welcomes national policing stance on self‑swabbing kits, warning they expose deeper failings in the justice system
The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Claire Waxman OBE, has responded to the national policing position on the use of self‑swabbing kits in cases of rape and serious sexual assault. The new policing statement sets out concerns about the safety, evidential reliability and lack of safeguarding associated with self‑swabbing kits used outside regulated environments.
“Listen to victims”: Victims’ Commissioner issues heartfelt plea to MPs ahead of debate on landmark reforms to the courts
Claire Waxman has welcomed the launch of a national Independent Legal Advisor service and the expansion of Operation Soteria, calling them "crucial" steps in protecting rape victims.
Victims’ Commissioner welcomes “long overdue” funding boost but warns investment alone won’t fix broken court system
The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Claire Waxman OBE, has welcomed the Government’s announcement of record funding for the courts system, but warned that “unlimited sitting days” must be met with wider structural reform to end the “intolerable” delays facing victims.
“Justice is not being served” – Commissioner urges urgent wholesale reform in wake of Leveson Report
Victims’ Commissioner warns that efficiency measures alone cannot fix a system at a "tipping point," calling for urgent and bold reform of the court system.
Victims’ Commissioner backs expansion of pilot strengthening rape victims’ right to challenge CPS decisions
The Victims’ Commissioner has welcomed the expansion of a pilot scheme designed to prevent rape and sexual assault cases from being stopped prematurely - while backing urgent calls for a permanent change in the law.
Crown Court victims granted free access to sentencing remarks in ‘victory’ for campaigners
"Today’s announcement is a victory for the brave survivors of the Open Justice For All campaign, and a crucial, welcome step towards real transparency in our courts."
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.
Statement from the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner
It is with great sadness that the Office of the Victims' Commissioner announces the passing of Baroness Helen Newlove, the Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales.