“Nearly a decade of somebody’s life on hold”

Lisa Thompson, Chief Executive of RSVP, the Birmingham and Solihull charity supporting survivors of rape and sexual violence, says the court backlog is having a devastating impact.

“Nearly a decade of somebody’s life on hold,” Thompson told us. “Survivors are living with fear, trauma, and uncertainty while waiting for justice. Nobody should have to experience that.”

RSVP provides counselling and independent sexual violence advocacy, guiding survivors through reporting, investigations, and court proceedings. Thompson says the delays are preventing victims from moving forward with their lives and prolonging the psychological impact of abuse.

A System Under Pressure

New Ministry of Justice data shows thousands of crown court trials—including hundreds of sexual offence and rape cases—are not scheduled to be heard until at least 2028. Some cases are even listed as far ahead as 2030.

Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman has described these waits as “inhumane,” citing evidence that prolonged delays can cause relationships to break down, people to lose their jobs, and physical health problems to develop as a result of stress.

Thompson says this aligns with what her charity is seeing on the ground. “Behind every number is a real person whose life is being paused. Survivors are waiting longer and longer to get into court, and the stress, anxiety, and fear that comes with that is enormous.”

Impact on Survivors

Thompson highlighted the ongoing risks survivors face while waiting for cases to progress. Many perpetrators remain free during these delays, which increases the likelihood of repeat offences. “We are putting survivors’ healing on hold for far too long,” she said.

She also explained the emotional toll: “Survivors want to move on with their lives, but they can’t. Every day that passes without justice is a day where trauma dominates their world.”

RSVP’s Response and Challenges

RSVP offers specialist support to children, young people, and adults affected by sexual abuse and assault. Services include counselling, advocacy, and support throughout the legal process.

However, Thompson warns that demand is growing while resources are stretched. “We’re open seven days a week, from 9am to 9pm during the week and weekends too—but it’s still not enough. The gap between need and capacity is widening, and funding has not kept up.”

She says immediate investment and systemic reform are critical. “The system is failing survivors. Without change, delays will continue, and more people will be left in limbo for years.”

Looking Ahead

Government plans to tackle the backlog include unlimited court sitting days and the creation of so-called “Blitz courts,” designed to process cases more quickly.

But charities like RSVP warn that structural reform, funding, and multi-agency coordination are equally essential to prevent survivors from being trapped in the system for years.

Thompson concluded: “Survivors deserve justice, safety, and the chance to heal. It’s time the system caught up with the real human impact of these delays.”