Vulnerable victims of crime in Peterborough could be spared trauma of attending court thanks to new scheme

Vulnerable victims and witnesses in Peterborough could be spared the trauma of attending court as technology allowing pre-recording of evidence sessions goes live today (Monday 23 November).
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Available at Crown Courts across the country - including Peterborough - immediately, the technology means cross-examinations can be video-recorded earlier in the process and played at trial.

This is to ensure that vulnerable victims – such as children or those who suffer from a debilitating condition - can provide their best evidence, away from the courtroom which many find intimidating.

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Recording takes place as close to the time of the offence as possible in order to help memory recall, and reduce the stress of giving evidence to a full courtroom.

Peterborough Crown CourtPeterborough Crown Court
Peterborough Crown Court

The move follows successful pilots in Liverpool, Leeds, and Kingston-upon-Thames, which demonstrated that victims felt less anxiety while pre-recording evidence.

Justice Minister, Alex Chalk MP, said: “The court process can be a harrowing experience for vulnerable victims and witnesses.

“This technology seeks to minimise stress and ensure they can provide their best evidence, without reducing a defendant’s right to a fair trial.

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“This is part of our efforts to drive improvement for victims at every stage of the justice system.”

Andrew Penhale, Chief Crown Prosecutor and CPS lead for Section 28 said: “The CPS is very conscious that being cross-examined at trial is particularly difficult for children and other vulnerable witnesses, many of whom have been exposed to very distressing and unpleasant crimes.

“Waiting for the trial process can inevitably add to their anxiety so the fact this measure can significantly reduce the time they have to wait to give evidence will make a huge difference. In the current circumstances, we know reducing delay is more important than ever.”

Dame Vera Baird QC, Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales said: “I very much welcome this national roll-out, ensuring more vulnerable victims and witnesses have the option to pre-record their evidence. Giving evidence and being cross-examined in court can be a distressing and re-traumatising experience. This is especially true for a child or a vulnerable witness. This roll-out will enable more victims to put their experiences behind them sooner, rather than wait in anticipation for the trial which may be many months away.

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“I congratulate HMCTS and the Ministry of Justice in driving this forward and being so responsive. This has the potential to transform the criminal justice experience for so many vulnerable victims.”

Anna Edmundson, NSPCC Head of Policy and Public Affairs said: “This is a welcome development from HMCTS and the Ministry of Justice. The NSPCC has campaigned for the introduction of pre-recorded cross-examination so that young people can give their evidence sooner rather than later and then start to look to the future and rebuild their lives.

“Waiting for long periods to take part in court proceedings can be a traumatic experience for young witnesses so this national rollout is an important step towards protecting the best interests of children.

“Alongside ensuring young victims and witnesses receive tailored support throughout the process, these changes should mean that children’s experiences of the criminal justice system are transformed.”