The new figures also revealed that 576 rape cases had been waiting for over a year to go to court at the end of September 2021, well over double the average of the previous five years.
also released last week showed that police forces recorded the highest ever number of rapes and sexual offences last year, with 63,136 rapes recorded in the year to September, up 13% from the previous period.
Commenting on the findings Dame Vera Baird QC, said: “There is no escaping the numbers: record highs in reported rapes and sexual assaults and charging rates so low as to be barely discernible. This is of grave concern and a depressingly familiar story. “Much as we hope each year to finally witness the green shoots of a recovery, we are once again faced with the crushing reality that the criminal justice system is continuing to fail rape victims in ever-increasing numbers.”She continued: “Alarming statistics today reveal that 41% of rape victims are withdrawing their support for action. Worse still, almost a third are backing out within the first three months of the offence being recorded.
“The nationwide roll-out of pre-recorded evidence and cross-examination in rape cases has been promised – and it will make a difference. But it must now be implemented in weeks and months, not years.”Sign up for the latest news and must-read features from Stylist, so you don't miss out on the conversation.