Research - including Attrition use of Previous Sexual History evidence in trials & use of Restorative Justice

The findings of this research will help inform policy development and the introduction of new measures and services to assist victims. This research includes:

• A report setting out baseline figure for attrition and identify underlying reasons for attrition has been drafted and is being quality assured. This information will inform the introduction of further measures to reduce attrition.
• Research into the use of previous sexual history evidence in serious sexual offence trials. Under the Queens University Belfast / DoJ Collaborative Studentship Programme, a PHD student is in her final year of a three-year research project to consider the extent of Article 28 applications in relation to the introduction of Previous Sexual History (PSH) evidence in trials; to what extent is evidence of PSH admitted in the absence of an Article 28 application and how is such evidence handled within the trial context. The project will also consider if in light of the empirical data, further reforms are needed in this area. The research report is expected later this year.
• Research into the use of Restorative Justice in sexual offences. While the Review advises caution around this highly sensitive subject, it also recommends research should be conducted to establish if a victim-led restorative justice process for sexual offences is possible. Again, under the Queens University Belfast / DoJ Collaborative Studentship Programme, a PHD student is in her final year of a three-year research project on this topic and her report is expected later this year.