THE way victims of rape and sexual abuse are treated by the criminal justice system has come under fire.
Jocelyn Anderson, CEO of West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (WMRSASC) said: "The whole criminal justice system for rape and childhood sexual abuse is wrong.”
She spoke out after a national authority came under fire for ‘re-traumatising’ victims of rape and sexual abuse when they apply for compensation.
The victims commissioner, after reviewing the process, said the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) was needlessly forcing survivors to repeat traumatic details.
Ms Anderson said the over-the-phone process can be “traumatising.”
She said: “The questions are very intrusive. They are asked to repeat details in a non-supportive atmosphere.”
“There are often massive delays for people and a lot of uncertainty. We have had people who have waited for two years for compensation. The average waiting time is 12 months.”
Ms Anderson said: “It is not a good process in any way shape or form.”
Ms Anderson also criticised the 1979 same-roof rule. The law was changed in 1979 to allow victims who lived with their abusers to claim compensation. However, anyone who was abused by someone who lived with them before the date the law was changed still cannot be compensated by CICA. This is now under review.
Ms Anderson said defence barristers often use compensation claims to discredit victims. “Jurors often view it negatively.” she added.
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “Whilst no amount of compensation can make up for the immense suffering endured by victims of violent crime, we are committed to ensuring that they receive the help and support needed to rebuild their lives.
“We take this duty very seriously, which is why as part of our Victims Strategy last year we pledged to look at the difficulties faced by some when applying for compensation – announcing a review of the scheme to ensure it supports them better.
“The review will report back later this year and will consider the points raised by the Victims’ Commissioner.”
Leisa Taylor, branch lead for Worcestershire’s Women’s Equality Party said: “It’s really important for survivors of sexual abuse to be in control of what they say about their experiences and when they say it. Services provided by organisations like the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority should be designed with victims at the centre of their processes to avoid people having to relive trauma in order to get compensation.
“The Women’s Equality Party is working hard to end violence against women and we know the right support from organisations like CICA is vital in this work.”
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