Yesterday I took the opportunity to ask the Justice Secretary about support for victims of rape, and confirm that those who have been convicted are unable to change their name to avoid the consequences of appearing on the sex offenders register.
Watch - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxSpr5ZGaz4
I look forward to working on the Victims Bill and Parole Reforms in coming months ensuring that victims and their families are at the heart of decision making.
I am encouraged that the Rape Review Action plan is making a big difference in conviction rates in rape cases (https://www.gov.uk/.../rape-response-overhaul-delivers...), and hope this continues when Operation Soteria is rolled out across the country from June.
In December a new 24/7 Rape Crisis support line was opened for anyone who has been affected by rape or sexual assault - you can read more here https://247sexualabusesupport.org.uk/
