Anti-social behaviour and disorder
Witnesses that come forward to report Anti-social behaviour (ASB) need support all the way from the initial report to trial, positive action and beyond.
Title: How best to support a witness
Author: Together
Date Published: June 2004
Number of pages: 2
The government has drafted an action plan for support agencies to use when supporting a witness, it includes:
Support when reporting…
Publicise what is unacceptable behaviour and how this can be reported.
Make the method of reporting as simple as possible.
When a report is received let the person know that the report is important and explain how it will be dealt with.
If appropriate try to act quickly to solve the problem by applying for an Anti-social Behaviour Order (ASBO).
Assess the security needs of the witness in their own home.
Provide a 24hr emergency line.
Consider using hearsay evidence and anonymous witness statements when people are too scared to come forward.
Supporting and explaining legal action…
Discuss and plan every stage of the legal action with the witness.
Keep the witness updated weekly. E.g. by telephone.
Keep close control of the evidence with regular checking of evidence diary sheets.
Remain alert to any potential risks to witnesses.
Let any relevant people such as caretakers or wardens know about the witnesses' vulnerability.
Put the witness in touch with other residents that can offer support.
Support at court…
Take the witness to visit the court in advance of the hearing so that they can familiarise themselves with the layout.
Ask the court for a room where the layout is least intimidating.
The witness is to be provided with transport arrangements to the court, child care, time off work, food and drink while at the court and a secure waiting area away from the offender and his or her family.
Support after the court…
Inform the victim and community about successful legal action.
Consider publicising successes through leaflets and posters to encourage the wider community to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Provide support for as long as the witness wants it.
Use local reward schemes to acknowledge those that take a stand.
Last update: Monday, August 18, 2008