I know a lot of people who have been through the trauma of undergoing investigations related to sexual offences and domestic cases. I've seen it first-hand destroy the strongest of individuals, leaving them without the justice they desperately sought due to factors like 'lack of evidence' or the fear of reporting owing to a perceived improbability of securing a conviction. For those individuals, and countless others, feeling safe seems like a distant reality.

Currently, the systems in place for investigating these cases are inadequate and insensitive to the unique struggles of survivors. The process starts with the officers who often lack trauma-informed training. An officer's ability to empathise and understand the nuances of trauma can significantly influence the outcome of investigations and trials, creating a more victim-focused environment. It's time we change how these cases are handled right from the investigation phase to courtroom proceedings.

In many instances, the existing rules and requirements to escalate a case to Crown Prosecution Services (CPS) or similar bodies are opaque and arbitrary, making it arduous for survivors to receive the protection they need. Moreover, those sitting on a jury often have little to no training in recognising and understanding trauma responses, which might skew their perception of the victim's credibility during trials.

We need a shift to a more empathetic approach in handling such sensitive cases. Introducing mandatory trauma-informed training for officers and jury members, alongside revising the procedural criteria for escalating cases to CPS, are crucial steps in this direction. This transformation could facilitate a more just and supportive legal landscape for survivors.

Join me in calling for a comprehensive reform in the way sexual offences and domestic cases are investigated and trialled. By signing this petition, you can advocate for policies that promote trauma-informed practices at every judicial level, strengthening the pathway to justice and ensuring a safer and more supportive environment for survivors of these heinous acts. Sign this petition to be a part of the change survivors deserve.