Rape Survivors’ Experience of the UK Criminal Justice System: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The conviction rate for sexual assault and rape in the UK has decreased since the 1980s. In part, this has been due to survivors’ negative experiences during their journey through the criminal justice system. While thorough reviews of the criminal justice system have taken place and recommendations have been made, there is a lack of psychological evaluation of the effects of this journey. In this study, we interviewed eight survivors who had gone through the criminal justice system, asking about their experiences and their impact. Thematic analysis, with triangulation, was undertaken, revealing that the negative experiences of feeling let down and the disjointed communication led to prolonged mental health difficulties. The interrelated subthemes highlighted how survivors’ expectations, potentially from seeking justice, were different from reality. Their reality of delayed, poor, and misguided communication from members of the criminal justice system made them feel abandoned, helpless, and powerless. The consequence of this was negative strain, additional trauma, and prolonged distress. These results are interpreted within a framework of the practicalities of investigating serious sexual assault and how best to support survivors of sexual violence while they are treated as witnesses under the criminal justice system in the UK.