On 30 April 2026 the Victims and Courts Bill received Royal Assent, creating new legal measures to protect crime victims. The act allows judges to impose prison sentences on offenders who refuse to attend sentencing hearings, ensuring that victims see offenders face consequences. It also restricts the parental responsibility of offenders convicted of serious child sexual abuse or rape resulting in a child, and extends the period for victims to challenge sentences under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme from 28 days to up to six months. The bill prohibits non‑disclosure agreements from preventing victims from speaking out and strengthens the Victims’ Commissioner’s powers. Additional provisions update post‑conviction communication, broaden the pool of Crown Prosecutors, and support investment in victim services.
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