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Support for Victims and Witnesses

Being a victim or a witness to a crime is not easy, but, with your help, we work hard to bring offenders to justice. Throughout the justice process we will support you and treat you with dignity.

The aim of witness care units is to provide a single point of contact for Victims and Witnesses, minimising the stress of attending court and keeping  victims and witnesses up to date with any news in a way that is convenient to them.

Witnesses are essential to successful prosecutions and we are committed to making the process as straightforward as we can.

Read the fact sheet about witness care units

Find out more about being a witness

Watch a video clip about Witness Care Units

Home » News Centre » Articles » Taunton Witness Care Unit to the media

Taunton Witness Care Unit to the media

10/11/2005

Following the successful launch of the Bristol Witness Care Unit in March, Avon and Somerset's second Witness Care Unit, based in Taunton, was officially launched to the media on Monday 17th October.

The new service aims to increase victim and witness attendance at court, improve trial outcomes and victim and witness satisfaction with the Criminal Justice System.

Witness Care Officers working at the new unit will carry out victim and witness needs assessments to identify problems which could prevent them from giving evidence, such as child care or transport problems, language difficulties, disabilities or concerns about intimidation. The officers will also co-ordinate the support and services provided to victims and witnesses and keep them informed throughout each case.

The new Unit will become operational on 14th November and will be jointly staffed by the police and CPS, with assistance from the Witness Service (part of national charity, Victim Support).

Enquiries to Avon and Somerset Area Communications Manager on 0117 930 2811