A coalition of survivors of rape and sexual assault has called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to implement a comprehensive overhaul of the criminal justice system, which they say is failing to adequately support victims. The group, comprised of individuals who have experienced physical and sexual violence, warned that many female survivors face re-traumatization during their pursuit of justice.

Among those leading the call for reform is Jade Belgrove, who was groomed and raped as a child by a family friend. Belgrove organized a petition that garnered more than 100,000 signatures within two weeks, demanding the exclusion of sex offenders from Labour’s early release scheme. In response, Burnham recently announced that rapists and child sex offenders will no longer be eligible for early release. However, criminals convicted of manslaughter—including those responsible for the killing of Pc Andrew Harper—and domestic abusers remain eligible for the scheme.

Despite this change, Belgrove and other survivors argue that further, more extensive reforms are necessary. The coalition plans to present a range of proposals in the coming months aimed at reshaping the system to better meet the needs of victims. Their demands include increased support services and enhanced accountability across criminal justice agencies.

Belgrove emphasized the importance of collective action, stating that by uniting, survivors can highlight systemic failings, reach a broader audience, and push for reforms that address the realities and challenges faced by those impacted by sexual violence.

The group’s statement reflects growing concerns about the treatment of survivors within the justice system and a call for policies that prioritize victim welfare and safety alongside public protection measures.