Victim Support Scotland have released a statement on the Scottish Government's Programme for Government 2025/26.

Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland said:

“We were pleased to see some of the current issues impacting victims and witnesses of crime included in the Programme for Government, highlighting the need for these issues to be made a priority in the coming year. Many of these were already under consideration and we welcome the commitments made for their delivery.”

“This includes a comprehensive assessment of the law in relation to non-fatal strangulation; legal representation for complainers in sexual offences; abolition of the Not Proven verdict; parole reform; and body worn video technology for police officers.

“Arguably, this was a missed opportunity to commit to tackling antisocial behaviour in communities, which has been highlighted in the working group’s recent report, rather than a sole focus on this crime in relation to football and transport, as well as growing youth crime. This, coupled with removing the alcohol ban on trains, will ultimately create more victims. The lack of resources to adequately enforce restrictions should not dictate whether or not they are in place.

“While a decrease in recorded crime has been emphasised, it's important to note that these statistics also indicate a significant drop in the reporting of crime, as well as declining trust in the criminal justice system and the police.

“A significant portion of the government’s recent criminal justice policies focus on perpetrators. We welcome a renewed focus on victims and witnesses, and the safe passage of the much-needed and long-overdue Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill - particularly aspects of the Bill that relate to abolishing the Not Proven verdict and establishing a Victims' Commissioner."