A £23 million package will roll out dedicated specialist courts for rape and serious sexual offences across all crown courts in England and Wales within the next two years, aimed at speeding up justice for victims.

Victims will benefit from private entrances and waiting areas, trauma-informed staff, and a single point of contact to guide them through the process.

From October, trials will run on fixed dates rather than floating lists, a reform described by the Prime Minister as rebalancing the scales of justice and prioritising victims.

Some opposition voices warn that delays could be used to justify broader cuts to jury trials and question whether the reforms are sustainable amid backlogs and funding pressures.

Context notes include a March Commons speech by MP Charlotte Nichols highlighting the long waits for justice and advocacy for changes to a backlog-ridden system.

Officials stress that while the measures are necessary, broader efforts to prevent crimes and improve prosecution rates are also essential.

Legal groups welcomed the moves but warned of ongoing challenges, including recruiting adequate numbers of lawyers and judges.

Campaigners and victims’ advocates welcomed the reforms as potentially transformative and supportive of survivors’ experiences in the justice system.

Industry figures such as Andrew Thomas KC welcomed the measures, stressing practical steps to cut delays and lessen the impact on victims.

The reforms are funded from the Ministry of Justice budget and come amid concerns about court backlogs and the impact of delays on victims’ mental health.

Advocates emphasize survivor participation and reduced distress through better facilities and processes.

Overall aims include speeding prosecutions and preventing crimes by tackling systemic issues and improving survivor support, with officials saying changes are long overdue.