Children's advocacy for Glasgow abuse court
16 Aug 05
Executive funds specialist support for young witnesses of domestic abuse
Deputy Communities Minister Johann Lamont today announced that the Scottish Executive is to fund the post of child and young person’s advocacy worker at the pilot domestic abuse court in Glasgow Sheriff Court.
The position, the first such in the UK, provides a dedicated worker to support children who are witnesses in domestic abuse cases.
Lora Hughes, who will take up the post, will join the ASSIST advocacy and support service working with the domestic abuse court, which provides support for those who have experienced or witnessed domestic abuse and is tasked with ensuring their safety during court proceedings. She will undertake assessments for children referred to ASSIST who are cited as witnesses and will be an advocate for and support children at this time.
Speaking during a visit to ASSIST today, Johann Lamont said:
"Appearing in court is a stressful experience and we know from work with vulnerable witnesses that children often need dedicated support to help them through the judicial process.
"The pilot court is working well and I am particularly pleased that the support service for this new specialised court is being so well received. It is very important that ASSIST is able to enhance the service given to the children and young people cited as witnesses in the domestic abuse court."
Lora Hughes has worked in this field for 20 years both in Ireland and the USA. She takes up the appointment from a position at Simon Community at Govanhill Women's Project. She said:
"The court and ASSIST both show real sensitivity to the experience of people subjected to violence in their own homes. This post is a wonderful opportunity to be part of an innovative children's service. It's a challenge I take on with enthusiasm."
To date, there have been 512 referrals to the ASSIST service.