Victim, Witnesses and Justice Reform Bill Comment on Stage 1 Debate

Commenting on the Stage 1 Debate of the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform Bill (Scotland) Mary Glasgow, chief executive of Children 1st said: “The Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform Bill can be a constructive step forward for children and families, paving the way for more resources, fewer delays more support and a reduction in traumatic experiences that we continue to see far too often in our services. 

“We are strongly supportive of the proposed duty to be trauma-informed, to improve access to special measures and to introduce specialist training through a new sexual offences court. 
 
“Through our work with partners to open Scotland’s first Bairns Hoose, we have seen strong commitment from those who work in justice and child protection to strive for the change that is needed.  
 
“The Bairns Hoose model of care, justice and protection will deliver on many of the bill’s aims and aspirations, if it is taken to scale with proper planning, investment and resources. We’re extremely surprised about the lack of connection to Bairns Hoose in the bill and urge the Scottish Government to deliver a more joined up approach to policy, which prioritises the needs and rights of children.”