Victims and Witnesses – Joint Protocol
Victim Support Scotland (VSS), The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS), and Police Scotland recognise the important role that victims and witnesses have in securing effective and efficient justice for the people of Scotland.
This Protocol has been agreed in order to identify best practice and obtain consistency of approach to improve witness engagement and support. We will work together to understand and meet witness needs, treating them appropriately, professionally and with respect at all times. We aim to avoid duplication and confusion so that we can improve certainty around the court experience.
The Protocol governs how we will:
- share information;
- arrange for witnesses to see around a court before trial;
- identify and explore the vulnerability of witnesses;
- consider the impact this may have on their ability to give their best evidence; and assess what special measures and/or additional support will make a difference
Latest news and blogs
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We’re here – support over the festive period
We know that the festive period can be difficult for people impacted by crime - that's why we'll remain open right through Christmas and New Year.
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A Victim-Centred Approach to Justice in Scotland: Scoping and Modelling Project
This project, commissioned by Victim Support Scotland, sought to explore how a more victim-centred approach could be realised in Scotland's criminal justice system.
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Concern over impact of new early prisoner release bill as Scotland’s crime stats revealed
Victim Support Scotland has expressed concerns about the impact of the Prisoners (Early Release) (Scotland) Bill, which was passed by MSPs yesterday, in light of new crime statistics revealed by the Scottish Government.
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Victim Support Scotland voices concerns about Prisoners (Early Release) (Scotland) Bill
Victim Support Scotland has voiced concerns about the Prisoners (Early Release) (Scotland) Bill.
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Media Reporting on Child Homicide – Victim Support Scotland Consultation Response
Victim Support Scotland's response to the Scottish Government consultation on Media Reporting on Child Homicide.
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Highlighting the role of Trustees at VSS
We sat down with Gillian Imery, one of our trustees, to chat about the role she plays, why she decided to get involved with VSS, and how her skills and experience enrich our charity.
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Statement on Homicide in Scotland figures
Victim Support Scotland has released a statement in response to the Homicide in Scotland figures released by the Scottish Government.
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Statement on Police Scotland rape statistics
Victim Support Scotland has released a statement on the figures released by Police Scotland which show an increase in the number of rape cases reported within the last 6 months, alongside the launch of the latest 'That Guy' campaign.
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Victims of hate crime need to have their voices heard
This article by our Chief Executive Kate Wallace argues why more must be done to support victims of hate crime.
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Statement on Scottish Government’s plans for Victim Notification Scheme reform.
Victim Support Scotland has released a statement on the Scottish Government's plans for reform of the Victim Notification Scheme.
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Statement on Scottish Government plans for long-term prisoner release
Victim Support Scotland has released a statement on the Scottish Government's plans for long-term prisoner release.
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Experiencing Hate Crime – Helena’s* story
When Helena’s* partner became disabled as a result of a severe stroke, they began to experience a series of hate crimes perpetrated against them by a neighbour. VSS supported her during the court process, towards the end of her ordeal. This is her story.
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