PCC welcomes revised charter for witnesses

Police and crime commissioner Tony Hogg has welcomed the publication of the Ministry of Justice’s revised charter for witnesses.

The revised charter, which was published last week, is the most comprehensive guide to what a witness can expect from all organisations involved in the criminal justice system.

The charter will help witnesses for both prosecution and defence cases and sets out the help and support they should receive at each stage of the process. It outlines 21 standards, 14 of which relate to the police.

It now requires officers to complete an initial ‘needs’ assessment for each witness, keep all witnesses informed about key developments during the ‘life’ of the case,  explain the criminal justice procedures, support the witness during the trial and giving evidence and advise on appeals and complaints.

Mr Hogg, whose office takes responsibility for the commissioning of victims’ services from 2015, said the charter is a step forward.

“Being a witness in a criminal case can be a very stressful experience,” said Mr Hogg.

“It is important that potential witnesses know exactly what it means to make a statement, what happens when a suspect is charged, why a defendant is released on bail and what relevant bail conditions apply or when they are given an out of court disposal.

“The revised charter ensures fair treatment of all witnesses and ensures that additional support is given when it is needed.

“It will help to quickly identify if a witness is vulnerable or intimidated and gives a very clear framework which officers must follow to keep witnesses updated during the course of the inquiry.

“Witnesses have a right to be told how an investigation is going and when it has been completed – particularly if no charge is forthcoming for one reason or another.

“They also need to know what to do if they feel  intimidated in any way after giving a statement and that police will take appropriate action to deal with any allegation of this nature.”