Enable Law welcomes last week’s announcement by the Ministry of Justice confirming a strengthened national commitment to improving the experiences of victims of rape and serious sexual offences. The extension of Operation Soteria into the courtroom and the launch of a new national Independent Legal Advisor (ILA) service mark a significant and long‑awaited step toward creating a justice system that truly protects survivors, rather than placing them under further scrutiny.
For too many survivors, the criminal justice process has historically been a second source of trauma. Many of our clients describe entering the process unsupported, unaware of their rights, and unsure who to turn to. Some felt blamed, judged, or overwhelmed by intrusive requests for personal information. These reforms directly address the gaps our clients have faced for years.
Moving in the right direction
Operation Soteria, first introduced in 2021, has already transformed how police and prosecutors investigate rape—prioritising suspect‑focused, victim‑centred, and trauma‑informed methods. The Ministry of Justice’s commitment to extend these principles into the courts represents vital progress in restoring trust in how the justice system handles these cases.
Gary Walker, Partner at Enable Law says:
“For far too long, survivors have navigated an intrusive and isolating system without the support they deserve. The introduction of independent legal advice is a vital step in changing that experience for the better. We welcome these reforms because they reflect exactly what survivors have been telling us for years and what our work shows every day: they deserve a justice system that supports them, not one that leaves them feeling alone or to blame.”
Independent Legal Advisors
The introduction of a national ILA service has the potential to transform the experience of survivors navigating the justice process. Many survivors are confronted with unfamiliar procedures, legal jargon, and questions about deeply personal aspects of their lives. For a long time, we have seen how the absence of clear, independent legal guidance can leave victims confused and vulnerable.
ILAs will provide:
- Clarity on legal rights and processes
- Support during intrusive requests for personal medical and therapy records
- A central point of guidance through each stage of the journey
- Confidence that their voice is being protected and their rights upheld
This development creates a vital bridge between victims and the complex systems they are asked to navigate.
Our Clients’ experiences show why this matters
At Enable Law, we work every day with survivors who have felt alone, judged, or disbelieved. Clients frequently tell us they did not understand what was happening, why certain information was being requested, or who was responsible for supporting them. Many felt retraumatised by having to repeatedly recount their experiences without appropriate safeguarding.
These reforms respond to exactly those failings. They represent an important shift toward a system that not only investigates sexual violence more effectively but also treats survivors with humanity, compassion, and respect.
Enable Law’s ongoing commitment to survivors
As a specialist team supporting survivors of abuse, we have long advocated for a system that understands trauma and removes barriers to justice.
We remain committed to:
- Offering trauma‑informed legal support for survivors
- Providing a safe, confidential space for clients to share their experiences
- Standing beside victims throughout criminal processes and compensation claims
- Ensuring our clients feel heard, protected, and empowered
We welcome these reforms—because they reflect what survivors have been telling us for years and what our work makes clear every day: survivors deserve a justice system that supports them, not one that leaves them feeling alone or to blame.
How Enable Law can help
Enable Law is a leading national firm supporting survivors of sexual, physical and emotional abuse, including cases of historical child abuse.
We understand how difficult it can be to come forward, particularly when abuse happened many years ago. Our specialist lawyers provide clear, compassionate advice and help survivors seek justice, secure compensation, and access the therapeutic support they need.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse – even if it took place in the past – we are here to listen and help.
You can contact us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in the form and a member of our team will call you back at a time that suits you.
