The number of rape cases reported to the police last year was the highest since data started being recorded in 2008, figures show.

Police statistics show 23 rape cases were reported last year, more than double the number recorded in 2014. Prior to 2008, the police used a different incident reporting system which grouped together all sexual offences, including violent indecent assault, indecent exposure and defilement of minors.

Experts believe the spike may have been aided by a heightened awareness of what constitutes rape and victim’s rights. Forensic psychologist Kevin Sammut Henwood thinks the increased awareness may also be facilitated by an improved investigative process, prosecution and conviction of the offender.

Victim Support Malta director Roberta Lepre says that, while the situation has improved, there still remains much to be done.

There needs to be a private clinic space where rape victims can be seen, she stresses. The doctor who carries out the medical examination should be the same who makes the forensic test and rape victims should not have to wait for doctors to finish from other gynaecology emergencies that crop up. This should be an entirely separate service, Dr Lepre insists.

A lawyer pointed out there was need for an improvement in the judicial system. In a judgment last August, a 39-year-old man was given a conditional discharge after being found guilty of raping a woman in Buġibba.