Vulnerable witnesses

This is a free and confidential service that can be used by any resident in the Sandwell area who is attending court and would be considered to be a Vulnerable or Intimidated witness.

We work in partnership with the K1 and K2 sectors of West Midlands Police, Sandwell Witness Service, Crown Prosecution Service and the Courts in the West Midlands region.

Case referrals are received from each of these agencies on a weekly basis. All witnesses would be regarded as vulnerable or intimidated due to the crime that they are affected by.

The majority of witnesses who are affected by these crimes feel great apprehension and fear about attending court to give evidence.

Research has shown that witnesses who are offered support by outside agencies generally feel more confident about the courtroom process and the Criminal Justice System in general. They are also more likely to attend court if they feel supported.

The purpose of this support is to increase the number of prosecution witnesses attending courts in the West Midlands area by offering support.

The services offered range from providing emotional support before, during and after the courtroom process, pre-trial court familiarisation visits. Witnesses are assisted with practical issues such as writing letters of support, completing Criminal Injuries Compensation forms, court expense forms etc. Witnesses are referred to other agencies if required.

For further information, please contact Manjit Sandhu

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