Victim Support
Victim Support is an independent charity which helps people cope with the effects of crime.
If you are a victim of crime, Victim Support can give you and your family and friends information and support.Also, if you are going to court, their witness service can help before, during and after the trial.
The charity also provides links to other sources of help.
Call them on 0845 30 30 900.
National Witness Mobility Scheme
The National Witness Mobility Scheme gives local authorities, other social landlords and the police services access to a nationally coordinated fast track witness relocation scheme.
Witnesses who are intending to give evidence in civil and criminal cases such as domestic violence, hate crimes, antisocial behaviour, gun crimes, sexual assault, child abuse and other serious crimes and consider that it is unsafe to remain in their home, will be assessed by their local authority and a designated police officer.
If there is a serious risk to the witness, they can be offered the opportunity to relocate quickly away from the unsafe area.
The criminal justice system
The provisions set out under Chapter 1 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, provide for special measures to protect vulnerable or intimidated witnesses.
These measures include:- screening witness from accused
- evidence by live link
- evidence given in private
- removal of wigs and gowns
- video-recorded evidence
- video-recorded cross-examination or re-examination
- examination of witness through intermediary
- aids to communication
Section 1 of the Civil Evidence Act 1995, enables hearsay evidence to be given in civil proceeding.
This is an important consideration when determining if there is a risk to the witness or victim.
If the risk is substantial, the witness may be able to provide a witness statement and remain anonymous during the court proceedings.
You can also find information on the Cambridgeshire Constabulary website.
