Naomi Long said actions linked to Northern Ireland’s new victims and witnesses strategy for 2026-2023 “will empower and support all victims and witnesses using a trauma-informed approach”.

Objectives within the strategy include:

• the establishment of a statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime;
• a review of the use of victim personal statements in court;
• expansion of the use of remote evidence centres for vulnerable victims and witnesses;
• scoping the development of a new Victims and Witnesses Needs Assessment Service;
• agreeing a recommended option for a Barnahus model to support children and young people;
• development of existing plans to implement a pre-recorded cross examination pilot; and
• improved protections for victims’ personal data in sexual offence cases by changes to disclosure procedures..

Mrs Long said: “It is vital that the harm inflicted by the impact of crime is not exacerbated by the criminal justice system. 

“I believe this strategy will deliver real and meaningful improvements for victims and witnesses and, in turn, increase confidence in the justice system.

“It aligns with our ambition for a justice system that enables quick and efficient delivery of justice; ensures that citizens and victims are supported and listened to; and minimises and deters offending and re-offending.  

“It also directly supports programme for government priorities around safer communities and ending violence against women and girls. 

“Critically, it adopts a victim-focused approach and reflects the voices of those who have been victims and witnesses of crime. 

“I’m grateful to everyone who has contributed to the development of this strategy, either by responding to our call for views and the public consultation processes, or by sharing their experiences of the criminal justice system directly with me.

“The strategy has undoubtedly been enriched by this lived experience and will therefore better address those issues that matter most to victims and witnesses.”

PSNI deputy chief constable Bobby Singleton said: “As a victim-focused police service we welcome the launch of this strategy.

“We know that only by properly supporting victims as they move through the criminal justice system and by treating them with compassion and respect, can we give them the confidence to remain engaged and help us secure the outcomes they deserve.

“We are absolutely determined to work harder than ever with all our Justice partners to translate the commitments in this strategy into practical improvements for all victims and witnesses.”

Geraldine Hanna, the victim of crime commissioner designate, added: “I warmly welcome this new strategy which is an important step forward in recognising the rights, needs and voices of victims and witnesses.  

“We know that for many victims the process can be overwhelming, confusing, frustrating and at times re-traumatising.  

“Our shared challenge is to translate the promises and commitments set out within the strategy into action. 

“I wish to thank all of those who helped to shape this strategy and in particular those victims and survivors who shared their experiences in the hope of improving the system for others.”