SCTS children and vulnerable adults centre to receive £950,000

Eric McQueen

The facilities will include flexible hearing suites and vulnerable witness suites with a direct video link to court, a private evidence room with one-way glass to aid observation, and a specially designed sensory room with furnishings and quiet spaces.

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “This is the latest step towards achieving our ambition that children, wherever possible, should not have to give evidence in court during a criminal trial.

“It will make significant improvements to witnesses’ experience of the justice system in Glasgow. I am pleased to hear that there is scope for expansion in Scotland and where appropriate, these suites may also be used for vulnerable adult witnesses.”

SCTS chief executive Eric McQueen said: “Our earlier work on The Evidence and Procedure Review satisfied us that we needed to transform the way in which we take the evidence of children and vulnerable witnesses. This was followed up with the Lord Justice Clerk’s Practice Note to encourage the use of the evidence by commissioner procedure; where a child or vulnerable witness can be questioned in advance of a trial under the supervision of a judge and their evidence recorded.

“We know from the initial evaluation of the practice note that having the right facilities and environment are critical factors and the new hearings suite in Glasgow will mean that children and vulnerable people can be supported to give their best evidence, and have it tested, in a safe and secure environment.”

Linda Jardine, interim director of Children and Family Services, Children 1st, said: “Making sure children and young people feel welcome, comfortable and safe means they can give better evidence without feeling anxious or experiencing further trauma.

“We especially welcome the continuing involvement of children, young people and adults in shaping the development of this new suite, so that it better meets their needs. The suite is another important marker on Scotland’s journey to ensure that practice, systems and culture support child witnesses to recover and move on with their lives.”