Victim Support Scotland launches new 5-year strategy to meet changing needs of people impacted by crime

Victim Support Scotland has unveiled a new 5-year strategy setting out its aims for supporting victims of crime in a rapidly changing justice landscape.

The strategy, titled 'Forward Together for Victims: Support, Innovation and Change' illustrates the need for evolving support to match the pace of new crime types, including new harms enabled by digital technology.

The strategy for 2026-2031 outlines three key strategic pillars for the next five years:

• Evolving our core support

• Meeting emerging needs and innovating

• Influencing and driving systemic change

Victim Support Scotland's mission is that all those affected by crime receive the high-quality support and care they need to move forward with their lives. Free, confidential, independent support is available for victims of any type of crime across Scotland. People do not need to report the crime to the police to receive support.

Debbie Adams, interim Chief Executive at Victim Support Scotland, said:

“The criminal justice landscape is swiftly changing, in line with wider societal trends. It is crucial that we match that pace of change with the support we deliver to people, enabling as many victims of crime as possible to access our support.

“The impact of crime is profound and long-lasting, shaping a person’s wellbeing, health, confidence, financial security and relationships long after it takes place. In the face of change, we will adapt and grow our services so that we can best meet people’s needs. We are committed to working with others to make improvements to the support we provide, and to implementing the legislative and systems changes we have campaigned for over many years.

“Victims’ voices will continue to guide this strategy, ensuring their rights are heard, recognised and strengthened. This is key to making effective and meaningful change.”