HAMPSHIRE'S police and crime commissioner (PCC) has reacted to a new amendment of the Victims Bill which will see children born as a result of rape as victims too for the first time. 

PCC Donna Jones, also joint victims lead for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, has reacted to the government’s amendment to the upcoming Victims Bill.

It means England and Wales will be among the first countries in the world to enshrine in law that individuals born in these horrific circumstances should be treated as victims in their own right.

The Government will amend its upcoming Victims Bill to make this change to clarify that these children are entitled to support from criminal justice agencies such as the police and courts.

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Responding to the announcement, Ms Jones said: “This is a significant step for the criminal justice system and for children’s rights. It is estimated that thousands of children are conceived from rape each year and before now, there wasn’t anything in place to officially support them.

“Children born in these circumstances are victims too, they must always have access to the support they need, throughout their life. This change to the Victims Bill will mean that children will have access to vital therapy and counselling, and ongoing support services and psychological guidance.

“Providing support for and protecting children should be the number one priority for any government. This amendment means Britain is leading the way in recognising children born from rape are victims in their own right, which is a really positive step.”