Hampton Trust welcomes new specialist courts for victim-survivors of sexual violence
Hampton Trust has welcomed the Government’s announcement that specialist courts for rape and serious sexual offences will be rolled out across every Crown Court in England and Wales over the next two years.
Under the plans, each Crown Court will have at least one courtroom set up to hear rape and serious sexual offence cases. Victim-survivors will be able to give evidence by video link from a separate room, and will be offered private entrances and waiting rooms to keep them apart from defendants. Court staff will receive trauma-informed training, and each survivor will be assigned a single point of contact. From next month, trials will also be given fixed dates rather than being placed on floating lists.
Since 2011, Hampton Trust has worked with people who have experienced sexual violence and abuse. On the Isle of Wight, our Independent Sexual Violence Advisory Service (ISVA) offers trauma-informed support to adults, young people and children, helping them navigate their criminal justice journey. Our ISVAs regularly manage high caseloads and support clients over long periods, in large part because of the lengthy waits that come with trials and court proceedings.
“This is a really positive step forward for victim-survivors of rape and serious sexual offences,” said Deborah Geering, ISVA Manager at Hampton Trust. “The introduction of specialist courts demonstrates a greater understanding of the impact the criminal justice process can have on those who have experienced trauma. Long delays can have a significant effect on a victim-survivor’s wellbeing and recovery. Waiting months or even years for a case to conclude can leave our clients feeling unable to move forward. Any measures that reduce these delays are likely to have a positive impact.”
The move towards fixed trial dates, rather than floating lists, should help reduce the adjournments and last-minute cancellations that many victim-survivors currently experience. Repeatedly preparing for a trial that doesn’t go ahead as planned takes an emotional toll on someone who is already vulnerable.
“For many victim-survivors, uncertainty within the court process can be incredibly challenging,” Deborah Geering added. “Greater consistency and fewer delays will hopefully help people feel more able to move forward with their recovery while still pursuing justice, and feel better prepared and supported throughout their journey.”
On the Isle of Wight, we are fortunate to already see good practice in place, with dedicated waiting areas and special measures routinely considered for victim-survivors attending court. The introduction of specialist courts nationally could build on this approach, helping to ensure victim-survivors across England and Wales benefit from the same level of support, safety and understanding.
