It’s time for a rethink on the justice system from the victims’ viewpoint
Charity boss outlines plan to create ‘dignity and respect’
Victim Support Scotland has launched its new fiveyear plan to empower everyone affected by crime through high-quality support and care – as well as transforming victims’ experience of the justice system.
The organisation - which has a base in Paisley’s School Wynd - believes that Scotland has an opportunity to rethink how the justice system is supporting victims, witnesses and their families.
As crime evolves alongside new technologies, incidents of domestic abuse, fraud, and antisocial behaviour have risen, particularly during lockdown.
Victim Support Scotland has been vocal in its concerns about the devastating impact of delays brought on by the Covid- 19 pandemic, which has resulted in court trials being halted.
Lawyers in Paisley previously raised concerns that the “monumental” backlog of cases at Paisley Sheriff Court would take years to address.
The mental health of victims, witnesses and those accused of crimes, as well as staff dealing with “immense pressure”, will be new challenges for the court.
The charity believes that fair and equal access to justice and giving people affected by crime a voice, is critical to the future success of Scotland’s justice system.
The five- year plan aims to: empower people affected by crime by providing high quality, outcome- focused support and care to all who need it; transform victims’ and witnesses’ experiences of the criminal justice system; build productive partnerships aimed at improving the experiences of those affected by crime and sustain its impact by focusing on making a lasting difference for people affected by crime.
Kate Wallace, chief executive of Victim Support Scotland, said: “As Scotland emerges from the covid pandemic, there is an opportunity right now for us to rethink how justice is being delivered, particularly from a victims’ perspective.
“It has undoubtedly been a challenging time for many, and we have seen the ripple effects of this global situation throughout the courts and wider justice system.
“What we want to see is that victims, witnesses and families from all backgrounds are treated with dignity and respect; and that everything possible is done to make sure that everyone impacted by crime receives the high quality support that they deserve.
“Our strategy builds on the foundations we have created within Victim Support Scotland in the last few years, and also takes our ambitions further.
“I am personally excited to see what we can achieve by 2026.”
To find out about advice and support available locally, go to https:// victimsupport. scot/ locations/ victim- supportrenfrewshire/
We want to make sure everyone impacted by crime receives the high quality support they deserve