witnesses

Briefing paper which revisits the recommendations and identifies progress made on 'Measuring up'. It also highlights where further action is needed.

It is based on discussions at two seminars held in June and September 2010 and a review of current criminal justice business plans and ‘Big Society’ policy pronouncements. The seminars were attended by senior members of the judiciary, legal profession and civil service.

In 2004 the NSPCC and Victim Support described the experiences of 50 young witnesses in their report In Their Own Words. The report concluded that, despite a raft of policies and procedures intended to facilitate children's evidence, their experiences revealed an implementation gap between policy and delivery. This is the executive summary of a study that considers whether the implementation gap has narrowed since 2004.

Document from Victim Support in Scotland setting out in detail their strategy for putting the needs of victims and witnesses at the heart of the justice system and the actions and policies they will pursue to achieve this outcome.

'Courtroom scenario' is suitable for a module or learning opportunity on working in courts. These materials will enable users to: perform confidently in relation to court processes and systems; appreciate good practice when giving evidence; develop understanding of, and skills in responding to cross-examination; and identify involvement in the court room as a positive element of practice.

Pamphlet looking at the magnitude of domestic violence problems in England and Wales and what risks and benefits the proposals contained in the Domestic Violence, Crime & Victims Bill will present. It considers the dangers of introducing an inflexible system to deal with the wide range of domestic violence offences and offers a different, more flexible approach.

This Act of Scottish Parliament outlines the legislation relating to vulnerable witnesses, such as children, who give evidence in either criminal or civil proceedings.

Document from Victim Support in Scotland calling on the Scottish Parliament to continue its commitment to the Scottish Strategy for Victims and its key objectives of providing emotional and practical support, information and greater participation for victims. Specific actions it calls for include establishing a Victims Fund and appointing a Victims Commissioner.

'Courtroom skills' is suitable for a module or learning opportunity on working in courts. The object aims to: identify messages for effective courtroom practice; develop your understanding of the different roles in courtroom settings; help you manage your authority and role more effectively; develop your skills in negotiating out of court and in giving evidence; develop your knowledge, skills and confidence about cross examination.

This Act of the Scottish Parliament relating to Criminal Procedure, is in four parts.

Part 1 deals with court procedures as they relate to the High Court of Justiciary.

Part 2 relates to trials in the High Court and the sheriff court. It also amends the time limits and citation provisions which are common to both courts.

Part 3 amends the provisions of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 in relation to bail.

This report sets out the findings of the Cullen Inquiry following the shootings at Dunblane Primary School by Thomas Hamilton on 13 March 1996. The aim of the Inquiry was to clarify the exact circumstances leading up to and surrounding the incident, and to provide recommendations to safeguard the public against the misuse of firearms and other issues raised by the investigation.

Key recommendations include improved school security; the certification of firearms; and the vetting and supervision of adults working with children.