REPORTING domestic abuse takes immense courage. Staying engaged with the criminal justice system can feel overwhelming – even frightening – but victims are not alone. That’s the message from a new video resource launched by the Northumbria Local Criminal Justice Board (LCJB) designed to help victims of domestic abuse feel informed, supported, and confident as they move through the criminal justice process.

The video is a response to feedback from victims who have said they want more information to better understand the process and support available. It is hoped the resource will improve the overall victim experience, helping more victims stay engaged in the system, feeling confident to attend court and in turn increase conviction rates.

The video explains the range of protective and supportive measures available to victims at every stage of the criminal justice journey. Examples include pre-trial visits, separate court entrances, safe waiting areas, and special measures to make giving evidence easier.

It also highlights the key role of Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) and victim services, who provide emotional, practical, and financial support – from transport and childcare arrangements to guidance about court proceedings.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, who is also the Chair of the LCJB, said:

“The very idea of going to court can feel scary, but it doesn’t have to be a total unknown. Knowing what to expect will help victims feel calmer, more confident, and in control – and that’s what we all want. People who feel supported are far more likely to stay engaged with the process.

“We need to reduce the number of victims who drop out by addressing the causes and making people aware of the help and solutions that already exist that might make it easier for victims to give evidence in a way that suits their needs.

“As part of my plan for Safer Streets and Stronger Communities, I made victims and justice a top priority and am committed to improving awareness of the support available and ensuring its easily accessible – this new resource is about doing just that.”

Assistant Chief Constable Alastair Simpson, of Northumbria Police, who is the victim and witness lead for the LCJB, said: “The heart of this project has been about making sure victims of domestic abuse are fully informed about what they can expect before their case goes to court.

“We recognise different people have completely different needs – and whatever might be right for one person won’t be helpful for another.

“We want this video to demystify the criminal justice process so that as many victims are staying engaged with the process as possible, as we consistently see more positive outcomes when they do.

“As a Force, we’re committed to doing whatever we can – alongside our criminal justice partners – to ensure victims are supported every step of the way so we can bring their perpetrators to justice.”

Debbie Breen, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor with CPS North East, said: “For victims of domestic abuse, this video provides key information about what to expect during the investigation and prosecution of these types of cases. The engagement of victims with the prosecution process is invaluable to us and, in some cases, their attendance at court may even be sufficient to secure early guilty pleas to domestic abuse offences. We understand that any involvement in criminal proceedings can be a daunting prospect for victims of crime, but we hope that this video can address some of that apprehension by explaining how we can use special measures to support them if they are asked to give evidence.”

Domestic abuse is a significant issue across Northumbria, accounting for around one in five crimes recorded by the police each month. In a typical month, over 2,000 domestic abuse-related crimes are reported, with the majority of victims being women, though many men are also affected.

The new video resource is designed to be used internally by professionals working with victims as well as publicly as part of awareness campaigns – and it showcases the positive side of the criminal justice system and reinforces the message that support is available every step of the way.

Northumbria’s Local Criminal Justice Board brings partners across the region together to work towards increasing public confidence in the criminal justice system and support people to feel safe in their local communities. Partners include: Northumbria Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Northumbria Police, Northumbria Victim and Witness Service, Crown Prosecution Service.

The video can be viewed here.

A full list of support services commissioned by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria can be found here – Victims Services Directory – full list – Northumbria PCC

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