New funding to help victims of rape navigate court system
The new funding will expand the number of advocacy workers and allow Rape Crisis Scotland to provide extra support over the next two years
A “life-changing” scheme to help victims of rape cope with the experience of court is to be extended with funding of £1.7 million.
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson has announced the extension of the National Advocacy Project (NAP) set up in 2016 to improve support for victims of rape and sexual crimes going through the justice system.
It follows the success of the Rape Crisis Scotland-led pilot project and an independent evaluation which sought to understand why victims decide to go forward or not with criminal proceedings.
The new funding will expand the number of advocacy workers and allow the charity to provide extra support over the next two years.
Rape Crisis Scotland co-ordinator Sandy Brindley added: “'Life-changing' is how rape survivors have described the support provided by the National Advocacy Project, in the independent evaluation published today.
“Reporting a sexual offence and going through the resulting justice process can be difficult, and it's crucial that people have dedicated support in place to assist them throughout this process.
“We are delighted that we will be able to expand the project, to allow us to more fully meet the needs of people through Scotland who have experienced rape or sexual assault.”
Mr Matheson said: “Sexual assault and rape are horrific crimes which as a society we must do all we can to prevent, while also ensuring a robust response to investigate, detect and bring to justice perpetrators.
“The Scottish Government continues to work with partners across public services and the third sector to ensure that victims of rape and other sexual crimes not only receive support, but actually feel supported from the very moment they need it.
“Despite an increase in the number of people coming forward in recent years, we recognise that crimes such as rape and domestic abuse continue to be under-reported when compared to other types of crime, and that an efficient, victim-centred legal process is an essential part of ensuring necessary support for victims.
“Advocacy services have a key role in helping victims to come forward and engage with the legal process and through this additional investment we can strengthen the support available to victims of sexual crime and help secure confidence in the justice system."