NSPCC appeals for volunteers

NSPCC Northern Ireland is appealing for people from Foyle and the surrounding area to volunteer for the NSPCC Young Witness Service.

The NSPCC Young Witness Service aims to make the process of giving evidence in a criminal trial more understandable and less traumatic for witnesses under the age of 18.

Janique Burden, NSPCC Young Witness Service manager, said: “Giving evidence is daunting for most adults and can be terrifying for vulnerable children who may have been physically or sexually abused, or have witnessed a serious crime. The service aims to help children and young people feel more confident and better equipped to give evidence, to understand their role in the court process and to encourage them to discuss their wishes, fears and concerns about going to court. Volunteer young witness supporters provide essential support to children and their families in the most demanding circumstances.”