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Support for witnesses and victims crucial for justice

19 January 2015

Citizens Advice has highlighted the importance of the right support for victims and witnesses of crime giving evidence in court today. The charity has welcomed the new guidance proposed by the Crown Prosecution Service which would give victims and witnesses more information about the prosecution and trial ahead of their appearance in court.

Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said:

“Support for witnesses and victims is a pillar of the justice system. Information about what to expect can empower witnesses which is important for an effective justice system. The proposed new guidelines reflect the invaluable role of witnesses in the court process.

“Giving witnesses a better idea of the court process could help minimise the pressure placed on them, making it easier to clearly and calmly present their evidence. Attending court can be intimidating for victims and witnesses who sometimes must face not only the prosecutors, judge and jury but also the defendant. The emotional strain of a trial can be worsened by practical problems, such as travel issues and conflicts with work and childcare arrangements.

“The Crown Prosecution Service guidelines should give witnesses confidence in the process by ensuring they are treated with respect and sensitivity. It is crucial that trials are fair and the new guidelines are clear that witness training is still not permitted.”

Notes to editors:

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, the Citizens Advice consumer service and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more see the Citizens Advice website.
  2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality.
  3. To find your local bureau in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk. You can also get advice online at adviceguide.org.uk
  4. You can get consumer advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 or 03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language speakers
  5. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.3 million clients on 5.4 million problems from October 2013 to September 2014. For full 2013/2014  service statistics see our quarterly publication Advice trends
  6. Citizens Advice service staff are supported by more than 21,000 trained volunteers, working at over 3,000 service outlets across England and Wales.