Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Stage 1 debate

At today’s debate on Stage 1 of the Victim’s, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill, we’re asking members of the Criminal Justice Committee to keep victims’ views at the heart of their decision-making. Read our briefing to MSPs regarding:

Part 1: Victims Commissioner

Part 2: Trauma-Informed Practice

Part 3: Special Measures in Civil Cases

Part 4: Criminal Juries and Not Proven

Part 5: Sexual Offences Court

Part 6: Anonymity

Additional Reforms

Victim Support Scotland believes the introduction of the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill presents an opportunity to introduce and embed vital reforms which people affected by crime have long been calling for. This includes:

• Improving access to referrals.
• Review of discounted sentencing.
• Widening access to victim impact statements.
• Introduction of Suzanne’s Law.
• Introduction of Michelle’s Law.