Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many trauma‑informed civilian liaison officers are currently employed within the Victim Witness Care Unit, and what assessment he has made of the Unit’s effectiveness in supporting victims of sexual assault since its establishment.

The Victim Witness Care Unit (VWCU) has 15 Victim Liaison Officer positions. The assessment of VWCU’s standard and quality of service has to date been based on internal assurance, reviews and proactively acting upon feedback surveys from both clients (victims/witnesses) and professional stakeholders.

When His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services undertake their assessment of the Defence Serious Crime Command, the VWCU will welcome their review of the victim service that is being provided. Furthermore, the VWCU have welcomed and generated open and transparent visits with key stakeholders.