Pre-Recorded Evidence Revolutionises Rape Trials
Rape victims who pre-record their evidence are having a far better experience in court. The move lets victims seek vital support earlier—such as therapy—while cutting down the trauma of face-to-face cross-examination.
Since the launch of the Rape Review, rape cases reaching Crown Court have doubled. The new system is shaking up the justice process for the better.
Early Evidence Means Less Stress for Victims
A police officer involved in the evaluation report said:
“I’ve watched the complainant giving evidence and I really felt for that person because they’ve just been pulled apart in that horrible, hostile courtroom environment which I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”
Traditionally, victims might wait days in court before giving evidence. Now, with pre-recording, they know the exact date and time they’ll testify, easing anxiety and improving their overall experience.
Sharper Memories and Stronger Cases
The report highlights a key benefit: shorter time between the offence and cross-examination improves witnesses’ memory recall. This is a game-changer, especially for vulnerable witnesses like children, whose memories can fade or become distorted over long waits.
Government Goes All Out To Back Victims
The Victims and Prisoners Bill now gives victims statutory rights to challenge decisions not to charge or continue prosecutions. Victims also get regular updates on their case and better access to support services such as Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs).
Other government initiatives include:
- Launching a 24/7 support line run by Rape Crisis for victims of rape and serious sexual violence
- Expanding Operation Soteria to 14 more police forces and 3 new Crown Prosecution Service areas
- New laws under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act (2022) to limit intrusions like unnecessary seizures of victims’ phones, with devices now returned within 24 hours by most forces
- Plans for legislation to control police access to personal data, including medical records
- A specialist sexual violence pilot scheme at Newcastle, London, and one other Crown Court to boost at-court support with trauma-informed training and better technology use
- Quadrupled funding for victim support services by 2025 versus 2010, and a 43% increase in ISVA and IDVA advisors—over 1,000 expected within 3 years
These changes are shaking up the system. Police referrals to the CPS have jumped 117%, and CPS charges are up 94% against 2019 averages. Referrals are also 30% higher than in 2016.
Charges are just 12% shy of the government’s target for the end of this parliament, signalling clear progress in tackling rape cases head-on.
