Victim Support NI AGM Learning Event

In order to mark their annual AGM, Victim Support NI held a Learning Event in the Belfast Harbour Commissioner’s Office, with the theme ‘Sexual Violence: The Trials, Tribulations and Trauma.’

The event was well attended by policy makers, the legal profession, and those working with victims of sexual violence.

Sir John Gillen spoke about the outcomes of his review into the way cases of sexual violence are dealt with by the criminal justice system in NI, and gave a rousing speech in which he said we need societal change to combat the misogyny and patriarchy present in our society today, and that men should be the first to stand up and say ‘not in my name.’

Dr Olivia Smith then spoke about her academic research into rape myths and how they affect trials.  Victim Support NI’s Court Observer project was also given an official public launch at the event, and the new digital resource ‘The Interactive Courtrooms’ was also revealed.