Justice access welcomed by MSP

Elena Whitham MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government pilot scheme to improve access to justice.

The pilot scheme will enable victims of rape and serious sexual assault to access transcripts from their court cases for free.

The SNP politician for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley- and former Women’s Aid worker- has praised the scheme for promoting transparency and fairness.

From 1st March 2024 to 1st March 2025, £100,000 of funding will enable complainers who have had their cases heard in the High Court to apply for the transcripts of what was said in their court cases, free of charge.

Commenting, SNP MSP for Carrick, Cumnock, and Doon Valley, Elena Whitham (pictured above), said: “As a former Women’s Aid worker, I understand how distressing the court process can be for victims.

“It is therefore right the Scottish Government is removing barriers and making the process more transparent and fairer.

“I pay tribute to those in my constituency and beyond who have campaigned for greater fairness and accountability in the process of achieving justice - something that can always be improved.

“The scheme, along with the proposed Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill is designed to improve victims’ experience and increase confidence in the justice system.

“I encourage all those who are able to do so to make full use of this pilot fund.”

More information can be found at https://www.gov.scot/news/ free-court-transcripts-for-rapevictims/#:~:text=Pilot scheme to improve access,court cases free of charge.