A Call to Confront Delays in Violence Against Women Cases

Delays in the justice system are leaving many women in limbo – waiting years for their cases to be heard, while their lives remain on hold. For survivors of violence, this wait isn’t just frustrating, it’s re-traumatising.

The Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, Jason Hogg, has called for urgent reform to ensure cases involving violence against women and girls are heard in court within two weeks.

Speaking to Oxfordshire councillors, Hogg was direct: the biggest issue facing victims is not just getting cases to court, but how long it takes once they’re there. He warned that some women reporting violent offences today may not see their case reach a courtroom until 2027.

That’s a gap of up to three years where victims are expected to stay engaged, re-live their experiences, and wait for justice that may feel increasingly out of reach.

While judges prioritise sexual violence cases, Hogg noted the reality: there simply aren’t enough judges, barristers or courtrooms to meet demand. Witness care units do their best to support victims, but with delays stretching into years, it’s an uphill battle. Thames Valley’s top officer argued that if the government is serious about halving violence against women and girls, investment in the criminal justice system must follow.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Justice admitted many cases are taking far too long. Plans are underway to reform the system, including a review led by Sir Brian Leveson and additional funding to increase court capacity.

These are welcome steps, but for victims already caught in the backlog, real change can’t come soon enough.

Justice delayed is justice denied. And for survivors of domestic abuse, long delays can erode trust, safety, and healing. The push to fast-track these cases within two weeks speaks to the urgency of the moment. Survivors deserve more than sympathy – they deserve action.

At TrustVault, we understand the emotional toll of navigating the system. We provide trauma-informed tools and pathways that empower individuals and strengthen services, so no one is left waiting alone. Join us on our mission to give everyone a safe path to support, justice and freedom.