Today (23rd September 2022) Dame Vera Baird has written to the Justice Secretary to inform him of her intention to end her term as the Victims’ Commissioner on Friday 30th September 2022.
Jayne Butler, Rape Crisis England & Wales CEO says: “Rape Crisis England & Wales would like to extend our thanks to Dame Vera Baird for her commitment and dedication to improving the experiences of rape victims in the criminal justice system. During her time as Victims' Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird supported and highlighted the work of specialist organisations in the violence against women and girls sector, listening to the needs of survivors and amplifying their voices. We wish her all the best for the future.”
The Victim’s Commissioner is a vital and important role: key to driving much-needed change for victims and advocating for their rights. We now look to the Government to ensure that work on the Victims’ Bill maintains a priority and to ensure that there is a plan in place for the coming months with no Victims’ Commissioner in post.
We will continue to work closely with the staff at the Victim Commissioner’s Office in continuing their work in promoting the rights and interests of victims.