New Right to Review CPS decisions before Rape Cases are closed

Survivors of rape and serious sexual offences across England and Wales will soon have greater opportunities to challenge decisions made about their cases.

New CPS Review Gives Rape Survivors a Greater Voice

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announces the national rollout of its Early Victims’ Right to Review (VRR) scheme from 13 July 2026, following a successful pilot programme.

The scheme gives eligible victims of rape and serious sexual offences the opportunity to request a review of their case before a final decision is made not to proceed with a prosecution.

For many survivors, learning that a case may not move forward can be devastating. The new process aims to ensure that decisions are scrutinised at an earlier stage and that victims have a greater voice in the justice process.

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What is the Early Victims' Right to Review Scheme?

Under the new scheme, if the CPS is considering ending a case involving rape or a serious sexual offence, eligible victims can ask for the decision to be reviewed by a different prosecutor before it becomes final.

If the reviewing prosecutor believes the original decision was incorrect, the case can continue.

Previously, reviews often took place after a final decision had already been reached, which could limit opportunities for cases to proceed even when concerns were later identified.
The national rollout follows pilot schemes in the West Midlands, North West, Yorkshire and Humberside, and Cymru-Wales.

Why Does This Matter?

The criminal justice process can be challenging and emotionally draining for survivors. When a case is discontinued, many people are left feeling unheard, frustrated, and uncertain about whether all available evidence has been fully considered.

The Early Victims’ Right to Review scheme seeks to address some of these concerns by:

Giving survivors a greater voice in the process
Increasing transparency in decision-making
Providing additional reassurance that decisions have been properly reviewed
Creating an opportunity for cases to continue where a different prosecutor reaches a different conclusion

Feedback from victims involved in the pilot has been positive. Some victims reported that simply having the option of an early review made them feel more involved and empowered during the process.

Is This A Step Towards Greater Confidence in the Justice System?

The CPS has described the scheme as part of wider efforts to improve outcomes for victims of rape and serious sexual offences.

Campaigner Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott, whose own experience highlighted the need for earlier reviews, welcomes the national rollout. She said the pilot recognises that victims deserve the opportunity to have decisions reconsidered before they become final and that survivors’ experiences can help shape a fairer and more responsive justice system.

Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman OBE also welcomes the expansion, describing it as an important step towards ensuring that fewer victims are unfairly denied justice.

This pilot recognises that victims deserve the opportunity to have decisions reconsidered before they become final. I am incredibly encouraged to see the CPS commit to rolling this pilot out nationally. It shows that when victims are given the opportunity to be heard, their experiences can help shape a fairer and more responsive justice system for others.

Jade Blue McCrossen-Nethercott

Support Beyond the Criminal Justice Process

While changes to policy and procedure are important, the impact of sexual violence extends far beyond the criminal justice system.

Many survivors need emotional support, counselling, advocacy, and practical guidance regardless of whether a case proceeds to court.

At Safeline, we know that every survivor’s journey is different. Whether you are considering reporting, involved in an investigation, navigating court proceedings, or simply seeking support, our team is here to help.