UK rolls out special rape courts to put survivors first
The UK government is rolling out special courts for rape cases in England and Wales to reduce delays and better support survivors with private facilities. Read More: https://punchng.com/uk-rolls-out-special-rape-courts-to-put-survivors-first/
The UK government has introduced a new initiative to create special rape courts in England and Wales, with the aim of prioritizing survivors and reducing delays in the criminal justice system. The changes, announced on September 21, 2026, include private entrances and waiting rooms for victims, fixed trial dates, and specialized courtrooms equipped with pre-recorded evidence and remote sentencing capabilities.
Lord Chancellor Alex Norris and Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized that these reforms are in response to victims' long waiting times and low prosecution rates for rape cases. Rape and serious sexual offence cases will receive fixed trial dates instead of being placed on floating lists, and the government plans to fund the installation of these specialized facilities in every Crown Court over the next two years.
Ciara Bergman, CEO of Rape Crisis England & Wales, welcomed the measures, stating that they represent a significant step forward for the justice system by ensuring courts are fit for purpose and properly meet the needs of victims and survivors.
Written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
