Victim Support Gets Massive Cash Boost
The Government is ditching hand-to-mouth funding for victim support and locking in a whopping £147 million a year until 2025. This big money move lets charities and services plan ahead, build strength, and help more victims across the UK.
Police and Crime Commissioners report a 15% jump in victims seeking support between 2019/20 and 2020/21 – proof these services are more vital than ever.
More Support for Domestic Abuse Victims
The fresh funding targets emotional, practical, and therapeutic help for crime victims – especially women and girls suffering domestic abuse. Expect more Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) and Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) on the frontline. This means victims can count on consistent, reliable assistance whenever they need it.
Dominic Raab, Deputy PM & Justice Secretary said:
“We want more victims to have the confidence to come forward, so that more criminals can be prosecuted and victims can get the justice they deserve.”
“We’re increasing transparency through local scorecards, rolling out pre-recorded cross-examination for rape victims to more Crown Courts, and boosting funding for vital support services to £440 million over the next three years so that victims get the support they need.”
Scorecards Bring Justice into Sharp Focus
New local criminal justice scorecards reveal how quickly cases move from police investigations to court verdicts. The data breaks down performance by police forces and justice boards, spotlighting victim engagement and the handling of rape and sexual violence cases.
Officials hope this transparency will boost public confidence, encouraging more victims to stick with the system and push for justice.
Emily Hunt, Government’s Independent Victims Advisor:
“Nine months after the Rape Review, far too many victims are still being let down. These Local Scorecards show how cases are handled locally and will empower people to hold agencies accountable.”
“Prosecution rates for rape have to rise. Public access to this data is a key step to making sure they do.”
New Measures Ease Victim Trauma
A fresh rollout of Section 28 measures will spare rape and modern slavery victims the ordeal of live courtroom cross-examinations. This allows cross-examinations to be pre-recorded in advance and out of the public eye, reducing stress and improving evidence quality.
The scheme is expanding to Crown Courts in York, Grimsby, Hull, Bradford, and Teesside, joining existing locations like Liverpool and Leeds.
Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner:
“I welcome multi-year funding. Domestic abuse victims deserve steady, long-term support rather than short-term handouts.”
Dame Vera Baird QC, Victims’ Commissioner:
“Scorecards highlight regional differences, helping expose weak spots and share best practices.”
“Plus, expanding Section 28 is a positive move to reduce trauma for victims.”
Justice System: Working Harder for Victims
The announcement builds on a new Victims’ Bill, longer prison terms for violent offenders, and a £440 million investment in faster court processes.
The government also relaunched its #ItStillMatters campaign to raise awareness of sexual abuse support services.
Max Hill QC, Director of Public Prosecutions:
“The increased funding means the whole criminal justice system can better support victims emotionally and ensure they give their best evidence.”
“Operation Soteria Pilots are changing how complex cases are handled, boosting charging and conviction rates.”
“We’re making progress, but there’s still work to do to bring more perpetrators to justice.”
David Lloyd PCC, APCC Criminal Justice Lead:
“Local scorecards help us identify issues faster and fix problems to improve outcomes for victims.”
Fay Maxted OBE, Survivors Trust CEO:
“Long-term funding is a lifesaver for specialist rape and sexual abuse services facing soaring demand.”
“Expanding Section 28 will stop rape victims from being re-traumatised in court.”
Joe Shalam, Centre for Social Justice Policy Director:
“These measures push the bar higher for victims’ protections – including vital transparency and pre-recorded evidence.”
Chief Constable Sarah Crew, National Police Lead for Rape & Sexual Assault:
“This funding strengthens victim support across policing and justice – vital to pursue perpetrators.”
“More transparency through scorecards will build public trust and highlight where we must improve.”
