Visit from the new Cabinet Secretary
We were delighted to welcome the new Cabinet Secretary for Justice Humza Yousaf to the Edinburgh Victim Service today, 11 July 2018.
Mr Yousaf spoke to staff and volunteers about the service we provide and the challenges we face. He was impressed by the commitment and dedication shown by our volunteers to individual victims and witnesses, and how we support people through the criminal justice system.
The meeting presented an opportunity to shine a light on the range of victim and witness issues which need to be addressed to improve the justice system for the people we exist to support.
He listened carefully to our discussions about having a more victim-centred justice system where the victim’s voice can be heard and considered.
In fact, ahead of his visit Mr Yousaf announced the launch of an ‘easy read’ version of the Victims’ Code for Scotland to help victims with communications difficulties understand their rights and improve their experience of the justice system.
He said: “Providing the right help and information to victims and vulnerable people is central to a modern justice system that is fair, transparent and efficient for all.”
We were impressed by the time and attention he gave us just two weeks into his new role as Cabinet Secretary for Justice. It was a positive visit and we are looking forward to working closely with the Cabinet Secretary going forward to help shape policy and legislative reform.
