To what extent have trauma-informed practices been embedded within the Scottish justice system? What progress has been made and what aspects of the system still need to be adapted in order to minimise harm and re-traumatisation, support the recovery of victims and, enable the most effective evidence gathering?

Background

The Scottish Government’s Vision for Justice aims to establish an effective, modern person-centred and trauma-informed approach to justice in which everyone can have trust, including as victims, those accused of crimes and as individuals in civil disputes. As such, Justice Analytical Services have identified the theme of ‘Justice Processes & Experiences’ as a research priority. Robust research on justice processes, the experiences of complainers and the accused as well as the functioning of juries will inform work towards this aim.