Yousaf announces Victims Taskforce to begin work

A new expert group will shortly begin work within weeks to improve support, advice and information for victims of crime, Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf has announced.

The Victims Taskforce will meet on 12 December, and then quarterly, to focus on ensuring victims' voices are heard and smooth their journey through the justice system.

Co-chaired by the Justice Secretary and Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC, the taskforce will bring together senior decision-makers from justice agencies, the legal profession, academia and the voluntary sector, including direct representation of victims.

Mr Yousaf commented: "While the long-term fall in crime over the last decade means fewer people fall prey to criminals in Scotland, where anyone is a victim it is essential the justice system and wider public services provide the best possible support and advice to them and their loved ones.

"As part of our work to further improve the experience of victims and witnesses through the justice system, we are investing £17.9 million this year through charities and other agencies working to support victims."

He added that the work of the taskforce "will be directly informed by victims' experiences and will play a key role in the delivery of our commitments to ensure victims' voices are heard throughout the justice system".

The Lord Advocate said: "The provision of appropriate and meaningful support to the victims of crime is part of a modern criminal justice system. Prosecutors can only do their job of delivering justice if victims and witnesses are willing to come forward and give evidence.

"The Taskforce represents an opportunity to improve the experience of victims, to reassure them that the system will provide support and give them confidence to come forward, speak up and make sure their voices are heard."