Victim Support Scotland’s Witness Service is based in every Sheriff and High court in Scotland.
The Witness service provides practical information and emotional support and someone to talk to in confidence to all witnesses (Inc family and friends) attending court.
The Witness service volunteers work within the courthouse.
Witness Service volunteers:
• Support victims and witnesses in court on trial day
• Offer information about and explain Court Procedures i.e. who everyone is and who will speak to the witness when they go into court
• Take victims and witnesses on court familiarisation visits before the trial starts
• Supports the families and friends of victims and witnesses.
• Liaise with Court Officials on behalf of witnesses, passing on information or queries
What skills & experience do you need to be a Witness service volunteer?
Life Skills - empathy, non-judgmental and friendly. Volunteers will need to be confident enough to speak to groups which may include uniformed and non-uniformed police officers.
Training and Induction Details
Volunteers must complete a training course and on-the-job training will be ongoing. After completing training, volunteers will complete a 3 month probationary period.
Selection Procedures
Application Form, Interview, Induction/Training, Informal Chat, Interview, Enhanced Disclosure Check, References, Trial Period
Expenses
Reasonable travel and subsistence costs whilst on VSS business are reimbursed
Frequency & Commitment
1 weekday per week (Court is only open Monday-Friday)
Minimum Age:
Please find an application form attached below.
If you are interested in being a volunteer, please contact your local service, details of which can be found on our online directory of services. You are welcome to apply at any time but please be aware the recruitment process may take several months to complete
