Dame Ruth Runciman Steps Down as Chair of MJSS Advisory Group After Two Decades of Leadership
We would like to recognise and thank Dame Ruth Runciman, who has recently stepped down as Chair of the Miscarriages of Justice Support Service (MJSS) Advisory Group after more than 20 years (in that role) of voluntary service.
MJSS, delivered by RCJ Advice, supports people across England and Wales whose convictions have been overturned, or who are awaiting decisions following referral by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC). Since 2002, the service has provided independent support to people rebuilding their lives after wrongful conviction.
Dame Ruth has been central to this mission from the very beginning. Her commitment to supporting wrongly convicted people dates to the aftermath of the miscarriages of justice involving the Birmingham Six. Recognising the lack of practical support available to people released after wrongful imprisonment, she championed the creation of a dedicated support service – what would become MJSS.
Throughout her time as Chair, Dame Ruth’s integrity, compassion and unwavering commitment to fairness helped shape both the organisation and its values.
Over the past year, MJSS has continued supporting individuals facing challenges around housing, benefits, health and rebuilding life after release, while also advocating for reform and ensuring lived experience remains part of national conversation on justice.
Ruth’s contribution to this work and to the wider justice landscape has been extraordinary. Thank you for your leadership, thoughtful challenge and steadfast belief that people affected by wrongful conviction deserve dignity, support and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.