Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Fourth Special Report of Session 2021-22 of the Defence Committee entitled Protecting those who protect us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian Life: Government Response to the Committee’s Second Report, what recent progress his Department has made on providing funding for the establishment of the Victim and Witness Care Unit of the Defence Serious Crime Unit.

The Victim Witness Care Unit (VWCU), part of the Defence Serious Crime Command, will focus on supporting the needs of victims and witnesses. Funding has been secured for the establishment of the VWCU and it is expected to be operational in March 2023. The VWCU will ensure access to independent welfare support based on individual needs. It will provide victims and witnesses with direct guidance and support on how the Service Justice System works and services available, ensuring they are well informed throughout the process.