Specialist courts for rape and sexual offence cases are being rolled out across every Crown Court in England and Wales within two years. Victims will get private entrances, private waiting rooms and a single named point of contact, under a £23 million package announced by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. From October, trials will also be given fixed dates rather than floating lists. The move follows a powerful Commons speech by Labour MP Charlotte Nichols, who waived her anonymity to reveal she waited over 1,000 days for her own case to reach court. Ms Nichols called the changes a "hugely important milestone" for survivors.
If you, or someone you know, has been a victim of rape or sexual violence, support is available from Rape Crisis on 0808 500 2222 (24/7). #justice #support #courts #justicesystem
