News

Vision outlined to improve court experience for children & vulnerable witnesses

As part of Evidence & Procedure Review, the Scottish Courts & Tribunal Service has today published a report which outlines measures which could improve the way children and vulnerable witnesses experience the court process.

These include encouraging and improving the use of taking evidence by a Commissioner (the current system where a child or vulnerable witness can be questioned in advance of trial, under the supervision of a judge) and changes to legislation to shorten the gap between initial interview and further examination. The report also sets out a long term vision based around the Barnahus (Children’s House) model in place in Scandinavian countries - initially for children, but extended later to other vulnerable witnesses. The Barnahus model spares children from repetitive interviews by different agencies in a variety of locations, which can be harmful and confusing, and can damage the quality of their evidence.