Rape Crisis Scotland

Carloway Review : Rape Crisis Scotland statement

Rape Crisis Scotland welcomes Lord Carloway’s recommendation that the requirement for corroboration be removed, and hopes that this will better equip our legal system to respond effectively to the reality faced by the vast majority of rape survivors. As most rape cases take place in private, with no witnesses and frequently little if any physical injury, the requirement for corroboration has presented rape complainers and prosecutors with unique difficulties in mounting effective cases.

We are, however, under no illusions that this move will constitute a solution in and of itself to the difficulties faced by rape survivors in obtaining justice. Corroboration is not a requirement in England and Wales, and the conviction rate for rape there is not significantly higher than it is in Scotland. While this development may represent a step forward for rape complainers in Scotland, we must continue to examine all possibilities in our efforts to give those who have suffered this devastating crime the justice they deserve.

While the need for corroboration has presented one barrier to many cases getting to court, public attitudes present a further obstacle to women seeking justice for rape. For as long as some jurors continue to hold attitudes that blame the behaviour, dress, demeanour or reputation of women for rape, they will continue to be denied justice.