Today, the government has announced a package of proposed reforms to tackle the court backlogs.

Katie Kempen, Chief Executive of Victim Support, said:

“The courts crisis has left victims enduring years of painful delays waiting for their cases to reach trial, their lives on hold and their trust in the justice system fading. Poor communication leaves them in the dark when they need clarity and support most. Unsurprisingly, many cannot keep going and are withdrawing from the process altogether.

“Decisive action is essential – but fundamental and permanent changes must not be rushed through without robust scrutiny and genuine consultation, within and outside Parliament, to make sure they’re grounded in evidence and will truly deliver a fair and functioning justice system. Victims must be at the centre of this – their views must be heard and considered, and the impact on access to justice fully understood. Anything less risks further eroding public confidence in the justice system.”