Stephen Metcalfe, local MP
for South Basildon and East Thurrock, rose on the floor of the House of Commons
yesterday to ask the Solicitor-General what steps are being taken support
vulnerable witnesses and victims involved in abuse cases.
The Solicitor-General, Oliver
Heald QC MP, informed the House that The Crown Prosecution Service takes
allegations of sexual abuse and domestic violence very seriously and ensures
that prosecutors are well equipped to handle those cases. He commented on the
vital role of witness care units before adding that the Director of Public
Prosecutions will shortly publish final guidelines on prosecuting cases of
child sexual abuse.
The local MP pushed Mr Heald
further by asking him to look at what more can be done to support those who
have been the victims of psychological or emotional abuse.
In response, the
Solicitor-General stated: “He is right that
it is important to support such victims and witnesses, which is what the
witness care units do. In addition, there is a range of guidance for
prosecutors on issues such as the provision of therapy to vulnerable and
intimidated witnesses. With regard to victims who have suffered mental trauma,
there is guidance on how to help victims and witnesses with mental health
issues, and the CPS also contributed to the Mind toolkit.”
Mr Metcalfe commented:
“Mental trauma is often invisible but the debilitating impact on victims’ lives
cannot be underestimated. It is vital that more is done to support vulnerable
people in these situations and I am pleased that the Government are working on
this.”
