Child specific CPS policy launched

27/06/2006

The first public policy statement on supporting children as victims and witnesses will be launched by the Crown Prosecution Service today.

Aimed at parents and carers and those who support children, the 'Children and Young People' document provides a comprehensive picture of how the CPS treats children who are victims and witnesses from the start of a case through to its conclusion.

Solicitor General, Mike O'Brien QC, MP said:

"Children can be victims of crime or witnesses to it. Giving evidence in court is always difficult but can be even more daunting for children and young people.

"In one murder case, a schoolboy was stabbed in front of his classmates and 50 were interviewed by police. More than 20 had to give evidence in court.

"The CPS statement is an important step to ensure we safeguard the interests of children in the criminal justice system."

Ken Macdonald QC, Director of Public Prosecutions said:

"Being a witness can be tough and challenging but it is an extremely important thing for anyone to do. We want children to play their part in bringing offenders to justice without thinking they are the ones on trial. The Crown Prosecution Service will do all it can to ensure the very individual needs of children and young people are met."

Richard Foster, CPS Chief Executive said:

"It is very difficult to think of a single offence where a child could not be a victim or witness. Children and young people can be found everywhere in the criminal justice system. In the same way that we make adjustments for children and young people in our homes and society we need to make adjustments within the criminal justice system. This policy document explains exactly what those adjustments are."

The policy, developed following a six month public consultation period, was drafted with the assistance of charities who work with children including Barnardos, 'Stop it Now' the NSPCC and Victim Support.

Notes to Editors

1. The 'Children and Young People' document is available on this website in the Victims and Witnesses section, or download the PDF from here - Children and young people - CPS policy on prosecuting criminal cases involving children and young people as victims and witness.
2. The Witness Service will provide hard copies to child victims and witnesses with the 'Young Witness Pack'.
3. A child or young person is defined as anyone under 18.
4. There is no lower age limit as to when a child can be a witness but there are practical as well as welfare concerns the CPS must consider.
5. Children's versions of the policy document are planned.
6. All enquiries to CPS Press Office on 020 7796 8102 or 8129.