Justice Minister Naomi Long launched the Victims and Witnesses Strategy 2026-2032 at Parliament Buildings. The plan covers seven years and seeks to apply a trauma-informed method in the criminal justice system.

Key elements include creating a statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime. Officials plan a review of victim personal statements in court. They aim to expand remote evidence centres for vulnerable people.

The strategy calls for assessing needs of victims and witnesses through a new service. It confirms a Barnahus model for support to children and young people. A pilot scheme for pre-recorded cross-examinations is also included.

Authorities will update disclosure procedures to protect personal data of victims in sexual offence cases. Long said the justice system must avoid worsening harm from crime. She noted the plan draws from experiences of people who used the system.

Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton attended the launch. He said police support victims with compassion to keep them engaged in the process. Geraldine Hanna, Victim of Crime Commissioner Designate, called the plan a step to recognise rights of survivors.