Innovative SOLA Scheme supports nearly 1,200 victims of sexual offences in County Antrim

L-R: Victim Support NI deputy CEO Nichola Greene, Justice Minister Naomi Long, and CSOLA Emma-Rose Duffy

Since its inception in April 2021, the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) scheme has provided critical support to 1,179 victims of serious sexual offences in County Antrim, offering free legal advice and advocacy to help navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system.

Launched by the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland, the initiative has been hailed as a lifeline for survivors, with a separate service for children and young people introduced in February 2025.

The SOLA scheme, operated by Victim Support NI, aims to address the unique challenges faced by victims of sexual crimes, who often find themselves treated as witnesses rather than entitled to legal representation.

Justice Minister Naomi Long emphasised the importance of the service, stating:

“Cases involving sexual crime are some of the most intrusive and difficult for victims to endure and I am determined that every possible support is in place to reduce the trauma that victims experience.”

The initiative provides access to qualified lawyers, known as SOLAs, who offer confidential legal advice and support up to the start of a trial. Their focus includes protecting victims’ privacy rights, addressing the use of personal records or previous sexual history in court, and providing clarity on the often daunting legal process.

“It is often a surprise to victims that they aren’t entitled to legal advice and representation. Instead, they are regarded as a witness and give evidence for the prosecution case,” Minister Long explained. “The SOLA service seeks to address this.”

Victims can access the service before reporting a crime to the police, enabling them to make informed decisions about proceeding with a case. This is particularly valuable for survivors of historical sexual abuse.

“Being able to talk through what is likely to happen, and to have an experienced lawyer to answer questions, can really help victims to make informed decisions,” Long added. “They can also offer support to adults considering making a complaint to police of historical sexual abuse that perhaps occurred when they were a child.”

The impact of the SOLA scheme has been profound, with 1,949 complainants supported across Northern Ireland by February 7, 2025. Feedback from service users highlights the transformative role of the initiative.

Jolena Flett, Head of Advocacy and New Projects at Victim Support NI, said:

“We know from the feedback we receive from SOLA service users that the support and advice of a SOLA can be of enormous benefit to victims navigating the criminal justice system. Some tell us that they wouldn’t have been able to proceed with their case if it hadn’t been for the support of their SOLA.”

The service is accessible and flexible, with SOLAs based at Victim Support NI hubs in Belfast and Foyle but available via phone, online, or face-to-face meetings in a safe location chosen by the victim.

“Our services are free and confidential and you can have a chat with us or access our support even if you haven’t reported the crime to police,” Flett noted, encouraging victims to reach out by emailing sola@victimsupportni.org.uk.

In addition to the adult-focused SOLA service, the Children’s SOLA (CSOLA) scheme supports victims aged 17 and under, as well as their parents or carers. This tailored service ensures that young people receive age-appropriate legal advice and advocacy, further extending the reach of this vital initiative.

The SOLA scheme has been praised for its commitment to reducing the trauma experienced by victims within the criminal justice system.

“The feedback from service users has been extremely positive and I want to pay gratitude to the SOLAs, whose commitment to providing support and clarity to people during one of the most challenging periods in their lives has had such a positive impact on the experience of so many victims,” said Minister Long.

Victim Support NI continues to provide emotional support and advice to those affected by violence and abuse, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of victim care in Northern Ireland. For those seeking support, the organisation’s SOLA and CSOLA services offer a beacon of hope, ensuring no victim has to face the legal process alone.

For more information or to access support, contact Victim Support NI at sola@victimsupportni.org.uk.