New Hope for Justice: New Right to Review (VRR) pilot for Sexual Assault cases

Victims of serious sexual assault and rape can now have a new prosecutor assess their case before final judgments through a Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) pilot.

West Midlands Launches Pilot Program Offering Sexual Assault and Rape Victims a Second Chance at Justice

The Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) pilot programme, which launches this week in the West Midlands, will provide survivors of rape or serious sexual assault the chance to request a review by a different prosecutor before their case is dismissed. If the prosecutor discovers enough evidence, the case will move forward.

Siobhan Blake, CPS West Midlands’ Chief Crown Prosecutor and CPS lead for rape, stated “We know that the possibility of their case being stopped can be devastating for rape victims.”

“Although they can request a review of our decision-making now, if we have already stopped the case in court, there is nothing that can be done to reactivate the case if that review comes to a different conclusion. In those circumstance, we offer an apology but appreciate that for a victim, an apology rarely goes far enough or feels like a just outcome.”

How the Victim’s Right to Review Pilot Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

For cases identified as eligible for a pilot program to end a prosecution, the process involves a prosecutor escalating the case to a senior manager. A review timetable is then established, and a second reviewer is assigned.

The victim will be informed by letter of the proposal to end the prosecution, including the reasons why, and allowed to request a review of this decision within a set timeframe. If a review is requested, it aims to be completed within 20 working days.

For cases that do not qualify for the pilot, victims can still request a review through the standard Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) scheme.

Once any review is complete, a Local Case Management Panel will approve the final decision to either continue with the prosecution or offer no evidence. Therefore, the victim will be notified of this final decision.

Purpose and Scope of the VRR Pilot

The purpose of this pilot program is to assess how the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) can offer earlier reviews in cases while carefully balancing the interests of victims, defendants, and the CPS’s prosecutorial independence.

The CPS will decide when its internal review process is complete and when to offer no evidence. Emphasizing the importance of fairness to the defendant throughout the review process.

Initially, the pilot will run for six months, with each eligible case being evaluated individually. Following this period, the pilot itself will be evaluated to determine its future.

This Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) pilot is a key part of the CPS’s efforts to enhance support for victims of violence against women and girls, aligning with the Government’s Plan for Change.

What are the benefits?

This pilot program aims to provide greater reassurance for survivors by informing them earlier if their case is likely to be stopped.

This allows them to request a review by a different prosecutor. If the original decision is overturned, the case will proceed. Even if the decision stands, the goal is for victims to have more confidence in the process due to the earlier scrutiny of decision-making.

Cases involving rape are extremely delicate and complicated. Therefore, prosecutors are highly skilled and adept at constructing compelling cases. Allowing victims to feel reassured because this pilot gives an earlier check and balance.

Survivors Campaign Leads to Pilot Program

A previous survivor, Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott’s courageous spirit, motivated this movement after personal experience directly influenced this pilot program.

Her case was initially dropped by the CPS, with no evidence offered in court. Although a subsequent Victim’s Right to Review (VRR) concluded the prosecution should have proceeded, it could not be reinstated.

McCrossen-Nethercott expressed significant enthusiasm for the pilot, hoping it proves successful enough for a national rollout.

She described it as a “crucial safeguard” that could have “completely changed the outcome” for her and others. While acknowledging she was “profoundly failed” by how her case was handled, she also recognized genuine efforts within the CPS to improve the system.

The outcome of this movement

Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said: “This Government is treating violence against women and girls with the seriousness it deserves, committing to halving this horrific crime as part of our Plan for Change. Part of that is about empowering victims and improving their experience of the criminal justice system.”

That is exactly why I have worked with the CPS on a new pilot scheme for victims of rape and serious sexual assault, which will allow victims an enhanced right of review in cases where the CPS intends to offer no evidence, importantly prior to a case being stopped.

Lucy Rigby added “Campaigners and experts tell me that this is what they want, and I want to thank them for their advocacy on this vital issue.”

“There is much more to do. But this is a further step towards the criminal justice system that victims deserve, and one which will make Britain’s streets safer.”

Frequently asked questions

What are the types of sexual abuse claims?

Depending on the type of abuse, circumstances and when it happened will determine the best course of action to make a successful claim. Below we have listed three ways we can seek compensation on your behalf.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is one way we can seek compensation for victims of sexual abuse. The CICA is a government-funded authority that aims to compensate blameless victims of an assault or other violent crimes.

With CICA claims, there is usually a two-year time-limit to pursue a claim although there are exceptions to this rule, and the assault must have been reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable.

The value of compensation that it offers for a single injury can vary from £1,000 up to £250,000, with a maximum total payment of £500,000 being available for a CICA claim.

Victims of physical assaults can claim for, not only their physical injuries but also, the psychological effects that an incident has had on them. The compensation offered by the CICA for such injuries is again dependent on the severity.

Civil Claims

At AbuseClaims.co.uk we can pursue a sexual abuse claim through the Civil Court. In this instance, we can assist you in pursuing compensation even if the perpetrator has not been criminally charged. In the context of sexual abuse, civil court is typically used to pursue compensation or damages for the harm and suffering caused by the abuse.

Unlike criminal court, where the offender is prosecuted, civil court allows victims or their representatives to file a lawsuit directly against the abuser or responsible parties, such as an institution or organisation.

This process can be used when the victim seeks financial compensation for medical expenses, therapy, loss of income, pain and suffering, or other damages resulting from the abuse. Civil court is also an option when the statute of limitations has expired for criminal prosecution, but a civil claim can still be filed within a different time frame.

Should I make a claim?

To decide whether to pursue a claim, it’s essential to seek legal advice and consider the potential impact on your health. AbuseClaims.co.uk offers a free assessment and can discuss your situation at no cost.

Litigation can be stressful and may bring up traumatic memories of abuse, potentially affecting mental health. The primary outcome of a successful claim is financial compensation. Most cases settle out of court, leaving some questions unresolved.

Consultation with medical advisors is crucial before proceeding. AbuseClaims.co.uk will support you and minimize stress during the process.

Why should I use AbuseClaims.co.uk?

AbuseClaims.co.uk offers a ‘no-win, no-fee’ approach to handling abuse claims. If unsuccessful, no fee is owed. If successful, a percentage of the compensation is taken.

A dedicated advisor manages the claim, assisting with questions and concerns. A female advisor can be assigned if preferred.

Proudly Partnered with Trauma To Triumph

Oakwood Solicitors is proud to partner with Trauma to Triumph, an organization dedicated to empowering survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and trauma.

This collaboration extends beyond traditional legal support; it’s a commitment to walking alongside survivors with compassion and integrity, recognizing the profound journey of rebuilding after trauma.

Trauma to Triumph’s mission aligns perfectly with our values, as they provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to share their experiences and begin healing, often through real conversations and peer support rather than solely in a clinical setting.

Together, we amplify the message that every voice and story matters, ensuring survivors know they are not alone.