More guidance on child witnesses

Further Scottish Executive guidelines on dealing with children and other vulnerable witnesses

News, 19 January 2005

Two new documents to help those dealing with child and other vulnerable witnesses have been published today.

The documents are the latest additions to the "Supporting Child Witnesses" guidance pack, produced by the Scottish Executive in consultation with the Law Society of Scotland and others involved in the justice system.

Guidance on Therapeutic Support contains advice on providing support for child witnesses. It is designed to clarify that decisions about the provision of therapeutic support lie with the child and/or those responsible for the child's welfare; and to provide guidance on how that support, such as psychotherapy and counselling, can be provided in ways that avoid the risk of contaminating evidence.

Guidance for the Police in recording information on child, young and vulnerable adult witnesses, is designed to ensure best practice standards in recording certain information about these witnesses.

Deputy Minister for Justice Hugh Henry said:

"These documents contribute to the series of child witness support guidance which aims to improve support and reduce stress for children involved in legal proceedings.

"The code of practice on therapeutic support strikes an important balance. It highlights the importance of appropriate therapeutic support whenever the child needs this, as well as how best to provide this support without risking contaminating the child's evidence.

"Accurate background information is also essential in ensuring that the right decisions are made in assisting vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence. The best practice guidance will, I hope, inform those decisions and make sure that children and vulnerable witnesses get the support they need and deserve."