Government of Jamaica
The Ministry of Justice’s Victim Services Division (VSD) is reminding the public that support is available for child victims who are to appear in Court.
Rev. Osbourne Bailey, Director, VSD gave the reminder during a Virtual Town Hall Meeting on children and the justice system held at the Ministry on Wednesday, July 8.
Referencing a survey conducted by the VSD in, Rev. Bailey noted that 60% of 200 children expressed that the most difficult part of being a victim of crime was related to the fear and ignorance of going to court.
“We had to develop a very comprehensive court orientation programme which would help to allay the fears and concerns that children were having when they are to appear in Court,” he said.
He further explained that the programme involves a series of activities that are integral to adequately preparing children for court.
“This involves explaining what takes place in court and roles of the persons they will encounter in the courtroom. We support our explanations by using model desks and other furniture that are available at many of our offices island wide. We also take the children physically to court when they are out of session as well as accompany them to court on the day,” he explained.
The VSD head also stated that while children are prepared for court appearances, caution is taken to not interfere with court processes.
“We are mindful that although we play a key role in ensuring that children are ready for Court, we do not interfere with evidence or the evidence giving process,” he emphasised.
During the 2019/20 fiscal year, the VSD provided support for 1072 children who were to appear in Court. Overall, the VSD assisted 4,244 children through the court support initiative, trauma and grief therapy and special intervention programmes.
Persons who are interested in the services provided by the VSD can contact them at (876)946-2014.
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For more information, contact
Brittany Stewart
Public Relations Officer
(876)550-0650
