Witness Service staff and volunteers were involved in supporting nine complainers in a rape and sexual assault trial, involving a professional man who had used his position within the community to perpetuate his abuse of nine women.  The women all had chaotic backgrounds, most involving drug or alcohol abuse.  All nine women were offered court visits before the start of the trial.  Some attended with their support workers, while others came with friends or family.

It was clear from the start that all the women would need support to give their evidence.  Applications were made for screens to use while the women were giving their evidence, but these were rejected by the defence on the grounds that it would prevent them from identifying the accused.   Applications were then made for the complainers to have in-court support, and all were granted.

Due to the ill-health of one of the complainers the trial was held for two days in another location.  This involved the Witness Service liaising with their colleagues elsewhere in the country to ensure that support was available to this woman.

After a nineteen-week trial, the accused was found guilty on some of the charges and not proven on others.  The Witness Service at the High Court had shown all nine complainers round the courts before they gave their evidence, as well as showing round four for support workers, along with countless hours and days of emotional and practical support.  In his summing up the trial judge acknowledged and thanked the Witness Service for their support and hard work throughout the trial.