Women’s Policy Group Welcomes Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill and Calls for Stronger Protections for Victims

28 September 2026 -The WRDA led Women’s Policy Group Northern Ireland (WPG) has welcomed the proposed Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill, describing it as an important step towards improving the experiences of victims and witnesses within the criminal justice system.

In its response to the Committee for Justice's Call for Evidence, the WPG strongly endorsed the establishment of a Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime, highlighting the need for an independent advocate to champion victims' rights and hold public bodies accountable.

Drawing on extensive research into violence against women and girls, the WPG noted that many victims remain reluctant to engage with the justice system due to concerns about victim-blaming, poor communication, delays, and inadequate outcomes. The WPG also called for the Commissioner to be given the power to intervene in individual cases where victims' rights have not been upheld, arguing that this would help identify and address wider systemic failures more effectively.

The WPG also welcomed provisions to improve transparency, strengthen data collection, and enhance protections for complainants in sexual offence cases.

-ENDS-

Contact:
Elaine Crory, Women's Sector Lobbyist, WRDA
Email: elaine.crory@wrda.net