21/09/2026
We welcome the Government's announcement that specialist courts for r**e and serious sexual offences will be rolled out across every Crown Court in England and Wales over the next two years.
On the Isle of Wight, our Independent Sexual Violence Advisory Service (ISVA) offers trauma-informed support to adults, young people and children who have experienced sexual violence and abuse, helping them navigate their criminal justice journey. Our ISVAs regularly manage high caseloads and support clients over long periods, often because of the lengthy waits that come with trials and court proceedings.
Waiting months or even years for a case to conclude can leave our clients feeling unable to move forward. Any measures that reduce these delays are likely to have a positive impact on their recovery and wellbeing. The move towards fixed trial dates, rather than floating lists, should help reduce the adjournments and last-minute cancellations that many victim-survivors currently experience. Repeatedly preparing for a trial that doesn’t go ahead as planned takes an emotional toll on someone who is already vulnerable.
We are fortunate to already see good practice in place locally, with dedicated waiting areas and special measures routinely considered for victim-survivors attending court. The introduction of specialist courts nationally could build on this approach, helping to ensure victim-survivors across England and Wales benefit from the same level of support, safety and understanding.
