Deputy Sean McManus, left, and Bailiwick of Guernsey Victim Support and Witness Service manager Marilyn King at the service’s premises. (0603043)
VICTIM Support is helping more islanders than ever. A total of 268 people received a helping hand from the Bailiwick of Guernsey Victim Support and Witness Service in 2007, almost a third more than the previous year.
The group held two open mornings recently for invited guests to see the witness suite and find out more about the services provided. Based within the new court building, the facility was planned into the new court development and opened in February 2006.
‘The service offers emotional support, practical help and information to victims or witnesses of crime, their partners, families and friends,’ said Marilyn King, Victim Support and Witness Service Manager. This is regardless of whether the crime was ever reported or how long ago it took place.
In 2007, victims of assault and domestic abuse were most likely to be contacted or be referred to the support group. ‘These things may have taken place years ago and only now do people want to talk about them. A lot of people don’t have anyone to turn to,’ said Mrs King.
It is a free and confidential service and the local branch is affiliated to the national charity.
‘It is a voluntary organisation which works alongside, but independent from, the Criminal Justice System.’
The witness service is an important part of the scheme and last year it helped 142 people, almost twice as many as in 2006.
‘Anyone can be a victim of crime and witnesses are a very important part of the judicial system,’ said Mrs King.
The service takes witnesses who may be involved in an upcoming court case or trial into the courtroom beforehand to acclimatise.
‘This gives them a chance to ask any questions they may have. It can be very daunting for someone who has never been in a courtroom situation before. When we show people the court room it is a real sense of relief and they can get an idea of what is going to go on,’ she said.
In March, a DVD was also produced to explain the court procedure from start to finish.
This included role-play of staged trials with the co-operation of Guernsey magistrates and jurats.
‘On the day of the hearing, when they have to give evidence, they can wait in here and have a volunteer wait with them. They can also accompany them up to and into the court room if they are very nervous. They are supported every step of the way,’ she said.
The suite also has a live link which allows young people, or those who are particularly vulnerable or unable to physically get to the courtroom for any reason, to give evidence.
Article posted on 9th July, 2008 - 1.00pm
Most Commented: