AQW 7754/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 28/02/2024
Answered On Date: 11/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the work of the Commission for Victims and Survivors in relation to victims of the Troubles since the start of the 2022-23 financial year.

Answer:

The Commission continues to work to improve the lives of victims and survivors and keep the adequacy of services under review.

Since the start of the 2022-23 financial year the Commission has focused on three broad areas of strategic development: Advocacy, History and Education, and Young People. This has included a range of research, policy development, and engagement activities in areas such as legacy, support for the bereaved, and delivery of the House virtual reality project.

The Commission has also completed a number of population surveys which will assist in setting baselines for reporting against outcomes for victims and survivors.

The Commission has undertaken a replenishment process for new members of the Victims and Survivors Forum, and has piloted a youth panel which it plans to establish on a permanent basis shortly.

The Commission continues to play a key role in a number of important areas such as design of the new draft Strategy for Victims and Survivors, development of the Regional Trauma Network and delivery of the Victims Payments Scheme.