The charity that supports victims and witnesses of crime has expressed concerns about limited progress made in actioning a ‘Justice Framework’ which nearly four years ago was said to be ‘progressing at pace’.
Last month, the Home Affairs Committee surveyed the public on their views of the island’s justice system.
The framework, approved during 2022, was intended to make several improvements to the justice system. But there are concerns that the needs of people at the centre of crime are not being prioritised.
‘From a victim-focused perspective, some of the most significant concerns relate to the experience people have after reporting a crime,’ said Jenny Murphy, manager of the Victim Support and Witness Service, which is an independent charity. She highlighted ongoing concerns that uncertainties within the system would prolong trauma for victims and witnesses to crimes.
A particular focus was what she called the ‘piecemeal’ efforts made to communicate with victims and witnesses on the progression of cases, what to expect at each stage, and what referrals could be made.
Mrs Murphy also raised the need for more support given to guarantee specialist support for vulnerable groups – principally children and those affected by sexual offences or domestic abuse.
She further spotlighted fears of both victims and witnesses about repercussions in a small island community, and what she felt as the ‘need to strengthen victims’ rights, voice, and participation across the justice system’.
‘It is important to acknowledge that a considerable amount of time, resource, and public money was invested several years ago in the development of the “Justice Framework 2022-2029” by the Committee for Home Affairs,’ she said.
‘It is concerning that progress on implementing the outcomes of that strategy has been limited.
‘A renewed focus on delivery and accountability would be of great benefit to the community,’ she said.
The survey was intended to advise Home Affairs in the progress of its ‘Justice Action Plan’ and its delivery. It asked about what people viewed as most concerning justice issues, knowledge of the criminal justice system, and whether they believed that crime was growing or shrinking. Ultimately the action plan will cover areas of justice, including sentencing policy.