Gillen Implementation Programme – Next Steps
The Gillen implementation programme is set to run to 2027 and as well as developing and expanding existing projects, we also hope to:
- Continue to develop plans and arrangements for a pre-recorded cross examination pilot. This project has complex interdependencies with other workstreams, and its launch will be subject to resolving several outstanding issues, including legal aid changes, and to securing funding.
- Another working group is working on the development of guidance for the media so they might adopt a more sensitive and effective way of reporting sexual offences.
The Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill, which will introduce further Gillen recommendations, was introduced to the Assembly on 22 June 2026. The Bill will:
- Enhance the protection of complainants’ personal information in the third-party material disclosure process. This includes information such as counselling notes and some social service or medical records.
- Enable SOLAs to provide in-court representation in pre-trial hearings of applications by defence to introduce evidence of the complainant’s previous sexual history at trial and for disclosure of the complainant’s personal information held by third parties.