| answer text |
<p>Speedy access to justice is in the interest of victims, defendants, witnesses,
and society.</p><p>The Ministry of Justice is co-ordinating cross-government action
to support the Crown Courts and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is engaging with
key delivery partners to support longer term improvements. The national Criminal Justice
Board, re-instated last year by the Lord Chancellor, is a welcomed opportunity to
identify and tackle the challenges faced by the criminal justice system.</p><p>The
CPS rolled out a new Crown Court operating model last year. This is a more effective
and efficient approach to justice as it means the CPS serve more material on the defence
at a much earlier stage so they can be more robust with case management and encourage
earlier guilty pleas.</p><p>Further, the CPS has an important role in ensuring that
victims are informed and supported. The CPS is transforming the service it provides
to victims through its Victim Transformation Programme. The Programme is delivering
an improved Universal Service offer for all victims of crime, which will build victims’
understanding of the CPS’ role, ensure that victims understand their rights, and signpost
victims to relevant support.</p><p>The Victim Transformation Programme also includes
an Enhanced Service offer for victims with the greatest needs. The first cohort of
victims to receive the Enhanced Service offer will be adult victims of rape and serious
sexual offences (RASSO). The Enhanced Service will include the offer of a meeting
with a member of the prosecution team once a victim has been notified their case is
proceeding to trial. This will give victims the opportunity to discuss what happens
next and ask questions about the process. The Enhanced Offer will also include a dedicated
Victim Liaison Officer in all CPS RASSO Units to help improve the quality of engagement
with adult RASSO victims.</p>
|
|
