The UK government has announced plans to introduce a nationwide independent legal advice service for people who report sexual violence, following the success of a pilot programme in London.
The initiative is designed to provide complainants with free legal guidance throughout the criminal justice process, helping them understand their rights and make informed decisions while their cases are being investigated.
The London pilot, launched in 2024, offered support on a range of legal issues, including requests by police or prosecutors to access sensitive personal information, applications under the Victims’ Right to Review scheme, complaints involving police or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), criminal injuries compensation, and other legal matters affecting victims.
An independent evaluation found that the service had a significant positive impact on participants. Many individuals reported feeling better informed, more confident in navigating the justice system, and more able to understand the legal options available to them. The report also concluded that access to independent legal advice helped reduce the sense of uncertainty and lack of control often experienced during criminal proceedings.
The pilot experienced strong demand throughout its operation, with hundreds of complainants receiving legal assistance across a wide range of matters. According to the evaluation, demand regularly exceeded the programme’s available capacity, highlighting the need for broader access to specialist legal support.
The service was delivered by specialist organisations with legal oversight from experienced practitioners, ensuring that complainants received independent advice alongside trauma-informed support.
Following the positive findings, the pilot has been extended until December 2026 while preparations are made for a national rollout. The expanded programme aims to ensure that victims and survivors of sexual violence across England and Wales have access to independent legal advice regardless of where they live.
The government has not yet confirmed the cost of implementing the service nationwide but has indicated that further details will be announced as the rollout progresses.
