WEST Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has welcomed the planned introduction of specialist courts to handle rape and sexual offence cases.
PCC John Campion said the move, announced by the Prime Minister, is a step towards a more trauma-informed justice system that better supports victims of serious sexual offences.
In West Mercia, the average wait time for an adult rape case is 482 days, significantly higher than the national average of 375 days.
Mr Campion said: "Victims of serious sexual offences have told me time and time again how the criminal justice system has failed to deliver the timely, trauma informed response they deserve.
"Long delays, processes that deepen their distress, and the heart-breaking decision some make to withdraw their case show why change is so urgently needed.
"The Government has now listened to those voices."
He welcomed proposed measures such as remote access to proceedings, private entrances and dedicated waiting rooms, describing them as 'welcome steps forward in creating a safer, more supportive experience for victims'.
The PCC also highlighted the rising number of cases in the region.
There are currently 160 open rape cases in West Mercia, compared to just 17 in 2019 before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Of those, 71 have been open for more than a year.
He said: "If the Government is to deliver on its commitment to halve violence against women and girls, one key element is ensuring the courts have the resources and long term plan needed to give victims confidence that they will receive the swift justice they expect and deserve."
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