Volunteer with the Witness Service and Victim Support

Victim Support is looking for volunteers to help people affected by crime feel informed, supported and more confident as they move through the criminal justice system.

The Witness Service, delivered by Victim Support, provides free and independent support for prosecution and defence witnesses in criminal courts across England and Wales. The service also supports bereaved family members and friends, as well as family members of witnesses attending court.

Volunteers play a vital role in making the court process feel less daunting. This can include offering emotional reassurance, giving practical information about court procedures, showing witnesses around the courtroom before a trial where appropriate, accompanying witnesses in court if permitted, and signposting people to further support when needed

There are different ways to get involved. Court-based volunteers support victims and witnesses before and during the court process, helping them to feel safe and informed. The role is usually around one day per week, 9am to 5pm, with the location agreed locally.

There are also outreach volunteer opportunities, supporting vulnerable and intimidated witnesses before, during and after trial. This can include keeping in contact with witnesses before court, supporting pre-trial visits, assessing support needs, and helping people understand their rights and entitlements under the Witness Charter.

Victim Support says its volunteers help ensure the charity can support as many victims of crime as possible. The application process is designed to be straightforward, although checks such as references, identification, DBS and/or police vetting may be required depending on the role.

This could be a meaningful opportunity for people who are good communicators, calm under pressure, compassionate and interested in supporting others through difficult experiences. You do not need to be a legal expert, although knowledge of the criminal justice system can be helpful

Find out more

To learn more about the Witness Service, visit: https://witnessservice.org.uk/

To explore Victim Support volunteering opportunities, visit: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/

You can also view current volunteering opportunities through Victim Support’s recruitment page: https://recruitment.victimsupport.org.uk

For questions about volunteering, contact:volunteering@victimsupport.org.uk

Further reading on the attached files below