Witness Service Volunteer - Victim Support

The Witness Service provides free, independent support to any witness giving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales — both for the prosecution and the defence. 

Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.  

The Witness Service also supports bereaved family members, and friends and family who are accompanying witnesses in court.  

Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.

Why volunteer with us?

• Make a difference - you will volunteer directly with victims and witnesses.

• Gain skills and experience - you will receive training on how to provide practical and emotional support.

• Join our community - you will be part of a large community of over 2,000 volunteers and staff.

• Beyond your role – attend one of our many events/webinars and join one of our six Equality, Diversity & Inclusion networks.

What do we ask of you?

In order to join us as a Witness Service Volunteer, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or over.

• Be able to volunteer for at least 1 day per week, for at least 12 months.

• Undertake training - this includes virtual training days as well as completing online learning modules.

• Undertake an enhanced DBS check & be part of the DBS update service.

• Be able to provide two satisfactory references.

• Have an active email address that you are comfortable using in order to engage with VS communications.

Expenses

All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.

Diversity Matters

• VS strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

• VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

• We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.

What skills do I need?

- Impartial

- Non Judgemental

- Good communication skills

- Active listening skills

- Basic IT skills

- Empathetic

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

We seek volunteers able to offer one day per week (Mon - Fri) between court operating hours of 9am - 5pm. We provide a service at all courts including in Blackburn, Burnley and across Lancashire.

Where does this role take place?