The police will no longer be allowed to request “unnecessary and invasive” access to rape victims’ personal materials such as therapy notes, under legislation put forward by the government.
Under an amendment to the government’s Victims and Prisoners Bill, police should only request material that is “absolutely necessary and proportionate” to ensure that vulnerable victims are not put off seeking vital support.
The amendment is intended to end “expansive fishing expeditions for information” that is often not relevant to the investigation and used to undermine the credibility of the victim, said the Ministry of Justice in a statement.
It will provide victims with the confidence to access therapy earlier without fear notes could be used against them in court, the ministry said….