Wiltshire pilots new national scheme to improve court support for domestic abuse victims

Wiltshire has been selected as one of the core pilot areas in a new national initiative aimed at transforming the support domestic abuse victims receive as their cases progress through the courts.  

The Government has announced £5 million in funding for the pilots, which will test enhanced measures to strengthen victims’ understanding of, and confidence in, the Crown Court process.  

Under the scheme, victims will be offered the opportunity to meet prosecutors before trial, giving them a chance to ask questions about the process and better prepare for what lies ahead. The programme will also bring additional domestic abuse victim liaison officers into pilot areas, increasing the level of tailored, consistent support for those navigating the justice system. 

In Wiltshire, this work will build on the existing support already provided to victims and witnesses through the Horizon Victim and Witness Care Service, funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. The new measures will sit alongside this established offer, ensuring continuity of care while strengthening victims’ experiences as their cases move through the court system.  

Wiltshire partners are working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to ensure the new approach is embedded effectively and delivers meaningful, joined up support. 

Police and Crime Commissioner, and Chair of the Wiltshire Criminal Justice Board, Philip Wilkinson said: “Wiltshire’s inclusion in this pilot is a significant and welcome step that will help shape the future of victim support nationally. Being chosen as a test area highlights the strength of our existing partnerships and our commitment to improving the experiences of domestic abuse survivors across the county. 

“The court process can often be one of the most daunting aspects of a victim’s journey. This pilot allows us to build earlier engagement, clearer communication and personalised support—factors that we know make a real difference in helping victims stay with the justice process and feel heard throughout. 

“As Chair of the Wiltshire Criminal Justice Board, I am determined that we use this opportunity to lead the way in demonstrating how a more compassionate, joined‑up approach can deliver better outcomes for victims in Wiltshire and beyond.” 

To find out more about local victims support services, please visit our online Victims & Witnesses Hub.