The Annual Standards of Service for Victims and Witnesses Report has been published today in line with the Victims and Witnesses (Scotland) Act 2014.

This joint report has been prepared in partnership with 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 sets out the steps taken by each organisation over the last year to help victims and witnesses feel supported, safe and informed at every stage of their journey.

We are committed to ensuring that these standards continue to be met, challenged and reviewed, with the annual report providing a platform for reflection and future planning.

SCTS Chief Executive, Malcolm Graham, said:

“The report published today demonstrates significant progress, not only as individual organisations but also together with partners, in a range of initiatives which aim to improve the experiences of victims and witnesses in particular through the justice system. These reforms include progressing alternative ways for victims and witnesses to give their evidence together with reducing any unnecessary attendance at court.

"We recognise that the journey through the justice system can potentially be difficult and re-traumatising for victims and witnesses. The adoption of trauma informed practices within our organisation is a key step in ensuring that they feel informed and supported to give their best evidence.

"We greatly appreciate the continued collaboration with victim and witness support organisations in supporting the development of trauma informed and victim centred practices.

"We understand that there is more work to be done. With the increase in the most serious criminal case registrations forecast to continue, it is essential that we continue to work together with other justice organisations to minimise any potential impact. We are committed to reviewing and innovating to make improvements and to ensure that the needs of victims and witnesses are met during their engagement with us. SCTS therefore intends to commence a review of our standards of service for victims and witnesses over the course of the coming year.”

Click to view the Standards of Service for Victims and Witnesses Annual Report 2024-2025.

Click to view the Standards of Service for Victims and Witnesses 2025-2026.