News

Susannah Hancock will take up post as Chief Executive Officer at the Office of the Victims’ Commissioner on 26 March 2026.

Peers returned to the Victims and Courts Bill this week for Report Stage, where several amendments backed by the Victims’ Commissioner were debated - and, crucially, some significant changes were agreed.

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.

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.

The Victims’ Commissioner is pushing for crucial changes to key victim legislation.

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.

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.

"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."

In 2026, victims have more rights than ever but accessing justice has never been harder.

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.