In line with the Victims and Witnesses (Scotland) Act 2014, the Annual Standards of Service Report has been published today. It is a joint report prepared in partnership by Police Scotland, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, the Scottish Prison Service and the Parole Board for Scotland.

The report focuses on the steps taken by each organisation to help victims and witnesses feel supported, safe and informed at every stage of their journey. The importance of ensuring that the Standards of Service for Victims and Witnesses continue to be met, challenged and reviewed is widely recognised and the annual report continues to provide a platform for reflection and future planning.

SCTS Chief Executive, Malcolm Graham, said:

“Engaging with the justice system can deepen the impact of past trauma for victims and witnesses, and in some cases, lead to re-traumatisation. It is essential that they feel supported, empowered to provide their best evidence and have confidence in the justice system.

“The report published today highlights significant progress across the justice sector. However, we recognise there is still much more to be done, both collectively and as individual organisations.

“There is undoubted commitment within our organisation to improve the experience for those who rely on the justice system. We are laying a solid foundation on our SCTS journey to becoming a trauma-informed organisation.

“We also deeply value the ongoing collaboration with third-sector organisations as we work together to develop trauma-informed solutions that guide people through their justice journey.

Our progress will be underpinned by prioritising people in all we do and supporting a user-centred culture that ensures sustainable services.”