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MORE YOUNG PEOPLE AND VULNERABLE WITNESSES SEEK SUPPORT IN COURT, SAYS UK CRIME CHARITY

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Increasing numbers of young people and witnesses at risk of intimidation are receiving help and support to help them cope with giving evidence during criminal trials, according to new figures from Victim Support released today. Nearly 5,000 more vulnerable and intimidated witnesses (including children and victims of domestic violence ) were helped in the last twelve months by the charity’s Witness Service, bringing the total to nearly 52,000. Over 28,000 young people under 18 were helped by the court-based service, which is an increase of nearly 4,000 on last year.

The new figures from Victim Support’s Annual report and accounts 2006 show that more witnesses and victims are being offered pre-trial visits, which allow people to see a courtroom before the trial and ask specific questions about court procedures. Last year, staff and volunteers at the Witness Service arranged more than 12,000 extra visits to help people feel better informed about what happens during a trial.

Joe Brazil, Services Manager at Victim Support, says: “Many people get their ideas about appearing in court by watching programmes, such as The Bill, which rarely give you a sense of how it feels to be a witness. The Witness Service gives emotional support, practical help and answers to their questions. We know that well-supported witnesses and victims feel more relaxed and give better evidence, so we’re very pleased that more people are accessing this information and support.

“Vulnerable and intimidated witnesses often have specific needs to help them cope with the court process, such as screens that shield them from the defendant, or video-link evidence, so they don’t have to go into the courtroom. We can help witnesses through the process, using ‘special measures’, by identifying their needs in advance, or on the day, by working closely with the police, CPS and the Witness Care Units. We’ll continue to liaise with other agencies to make sure it happens.”

Staff and trained volunteers at the Witness Service provide free and confidential information, practical help and emotional support to witnesses, victims, their families and friends at every criminal court in England and Wales.

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