On 21st September 2026, the Government announced that specialist courts focused on handling rape and sexual offence cases will be introduced across England and Wales over the next two years.

Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, noted that "For too long, victims of rape and serious sexual offences have felt let down by our justice system…Prosecution rates for rape remain shamefully low, with many victims waiting years for justice. This is not good enough."

The changes aim to provide a more supportive environment for survivors and prioritise them throughout the criminal court proceedings.  

The proposed measures that are to be introduced include:

• Dedicated courtrooms for rape and sexual offence cases;
• Private entrances and waiting areas to ensure survivors are kept separate from the perpetrators;
• Trauma-informed training for court staff;
• A single point of contact to support survivors throughout the court process;
• Fixed trial dates. 

From October 2026, criminal trials will be given a fixed date rather than being placed on floating lists that are subject to change.  When trials are rescheduled, this has a significant emotional impact on survivors and their loved ones due to give evidence. Their lives are once again put on hold, waiting. Further such delays can contribute to some individuals withdrawing from the process altogether.

The measures proposed to be introduced by the Government aim to take a positive step forward in tackling the lengthy delays that survivors are currently experiencing in bringing their cases to court. By providing greater certainty with court listings, it could help to improve survivors’ confidence in the justice system.

By including trauma-informed training for court staff, the emphasis is on reducing further trauma and improving communication with survivors as their case progresses. Survivors will also be supported by a single point of contact, allowing the process to feel more personal and prioritising each individual survivor.

These proposed changes to the criminal justice system represent an attempt to reduce unnecessary delays, ensure cases progress more efficiently through the courts, and enhance access to justice for survivors of rape and sexual offences across England and Wales.  

How can Switalskis help?

Every survivor of abuse deserves justice. At Switalskis, our specialist abuse lawyers have decades of experience in representing survivors of sexual abuse and securing compensation through civil claims.

As well as obtaining criminal convictions against an offender, survivors may also be able to make a civil claim for compensation. The legal options include: -

• Making an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). 
• Bringing a claim against the perpetrator directly, where the individual responsible can be identified and has the financial means to pay any compensation awarded.
• Bringing a claim against an organisation or institution where the abuse occurred in circumstances connected to a person’s employment, position or role within that organisation.

We understand that such cases are very emotional for clients and are often legally complex, therefore we are dedicated to providing a supportive and professional environment in which our clients can feel confident in our services.

If you have experienced abuse and would like to discuss the possibility of a compensation claim, our specialist abuse team can help. Call 0808 258 8041 or email help@switalskis.com