Victim support key to criminal justice improvement, Matheson

By The Press Association7th September 2015News ScotlandCourts / Justice, Domestic Abuse / Violence, News Scotland, Sexual Abuse, Victim Support

Giving help and support to vulnerable victims and witnesses is key to improving Scotland’s criminal justice system, Michael Matheson said.

The Justice Secretary spoke out as the latest in a series of measures was introduced to help those who have suffered domestic abuse, sexual offences, stalking and human trafficking.

Legislation already passed by Holyrood means that these victims, and victims under the age of 18, are automatically eligible to give evidence via video link, rather than having to face their attacker in court.

A new category of vulnerable witnesses has also been created, for those who are likely to suffer significant harm as a result of giving evidence.

Changes have already been made as a result of the Victims and Witnesses (Scotland) 2014 Act, with both victims and witnesses given the right to access information about the progress of their case.

Those who have been the victim of sexual offences, domestic abuse, stalking or human trafficking also now have the right to specify if they want to be interviewed by a male or female police officer.

Mr Matheson said: “These changes ensure that those who are vulnerable are offered the right support to give them the confidence to fulfil their public duty and know their voices will be heard.

“Providing help and support for victims and witnesses is key to building an even stronger criminal justice system in Scotland.

“We have worked closely with victim support organisations and criminal justice agencies throughout the legislative process and in planning for implementation, and the measures in this Act have been widely welcomed.”