Multi-million pound investment to open specialist rape courts as PM says prosecutions remain "shamefully low"
“For too long, victims of rape and serious sexual offences have felt let down by our justice system”
Specialists courts to tackle rape and sexual assault cases are to be rolled out across the country as the Government invests in securing justice for victims.
Backed by a multi-million cash injection, every Crown Court in England and Wales will get at least one courtroom especially set up to hear rape and serious sexual offence cases over the next two years, helping to hold more perpetrators to account.
Rape and serious sexual assault cases will also be prioritised in courts, in an effort to limit the chances of short notice delays that can mean justice isn’t served for months or even years.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “For too long, victims of rape and serious sexual offences have felt let down by our justice system. Prosecution rates for rape remain shamefully low, with many victims waiting years for justice.
“This is not good enough. That’s why we are making major changes to rebalance the scales of justice and put victims first. This includes rolling out specialist courtrooms for rape and serious sex offences.
“These changes are long overdue and will make a significant difference, but focusing on prosecution alone will not be enough. So as well as ensuring victims get justice, we will step up action to prevent these horrific crimes from happening in the first place.”
Earlier this month, the PM also announced that by the end of 2027, all police forces in England and Wales will have dedicated rape and sexual offence investigation teams.
The latest changes will also see all court staff get trauma-informed training, while during trials claimants will get a single point of contact who they can go to with throughout court proceedings.
Ciara Bergman, CEO of Rape Crisis England and Wales says: “This important package of measures represents a significant step forward for our justice system, and includes many of the reforms that Rape Crisis England and Wales have been calling for over many years.
“Taken together, they reflect the urgency of ensuring that courts are fit for purpose and properly meet the needs of victims and survivors, which is crucial to securing justice.
“We’re particularly pleased to see measures that will improve trial efficiency and ensure survivors are better able to participate in, and observe, proceedings. The recognition that suitable separate waiting areas, entrances and exits are essential to prevent survivors from being intimidated and distressed by the presence of perpetrators and their supporters is also significant.
“This welcome change is both necessary and long overdue.”
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