If you’re a young person attending court as a victim or witness, or the parent or guardian of a young person attending court, we’re here for you.  

We also provide emotional support and practical help following a crime. Our victim service pages contain general information about supporting young people affected by a crime.

Young man sitting on some steps outside.

For young people aged 18 and under you are entitled to special measures in court. Special measures fall into two categories: Special Measures and Standard Special Measures.

Standard Special Measures

One or more of these measures will be put in place for you automatically.  You do not need to ask for this to happen. But if you would like to discuss these arrangements you can contact the Witness Service located at the court.

  • A remote web link – giving evidence in a private room via a computer, just like Skype at home.
  • A screen – a partition will be installed in court, so that the only people you will be able to see are the court officials.
  • A supporter – a Victim Support Scotland team member will sit with you in court.

Special Measures

The special measures below are not applied automatically and require Victim Information and Advice (VIA) at the court to discuss these measures with you before making an application. We can help you contact VIA

  • Giving evidence by providing a statement prior to going to court
  • Giving evidence to a commissioner (court official). The evidence will be filmed and no press or public will be present
  • A closed court where public and the press are not allowed to attend.

For more information on special measures contact Victim Support Scotland and ask for the witness service at the court that you will be attending.

You can get in contact by:

  • Calling our helpline – 0800 160 1985 (Mon – Fri, 8am – 8pm)
  • Requesting support or asking a question via email
  • Contacting the relevant witness service directly
  • Talking to us right away via web chat at victimsupportsco.org.uk