Court Support Volunteer – Loughborough

Opportunity by Citizens Advice Witness Service
Location Loughborough Magistrates' Court, Pinfold Gate, Loughborough, UK

Our volunteers provide practical and emotional support and information to witnesses, so that they feel valued, respected and informed and able to give their best evidence in court.

Apply now

About this role

You will support witnesses (and their friends and families) through the experience of attending court. You’ll be there to give them practical information about the process, as well as emotional support to help witnesses feel more confident about giving evidence.

Many of our volunteers also deliver enhanced support to vulnerable and intimidated witnesses inc. children and young people, people with learning disabilities, and people with mental health issues. They support witnesses in a community setting before, during and after the trial.

As a Witness Service Volunteer you will be asked to…

  • Give witnesses and their supporters emotional support, guidance and information at court (e.g. explain court procedures and legal terms).
  • Show witnesses and others around the courtroom before a trial so they are familiar and at ease in the environment.
  • Carry out the paperwork necessary to record and evaluate our work.
  • Go into the courtroom with a witness if permitted.
  • Identify additional support to which we can signpost witnesses.
  • Work as part of a team with other Witness Service volunteers and staff as well as liaising with court personnel.
  • Attend more than one court in your area when necessary

What’s in it for you?

  • Contribute to the service’s aims of supporting witnesses
  • Training, accreditation and continued personal development and support in the role
  • Use your skills and life experiences to help others
  • The chance to take on additional internal roles such as a volunteer mentor
  • Gain valuable experience and development of interpersonal skills.
  • Have a positive impact in your community and on the lives of witnesses and their supporters
  • Reimbursement of agreed expenses

When you can volunteer

MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
Morning
Afternoon
Evening

Requirements

  • References needed
  • Willing to take a DBS Check
  • Age restrictions
  • Accepts ex/offenders

Full training for the role is provided.
2 references required.
Enhanced DBS check required.
Volunteers need to be over 18 years old.
Having a criminal record is not in itself a barrier to volunteering with us.

Skills

Causes

Location

Location Loughborough Magistrates' Court, Pinfold Gate, Loughborough, UK

Apply now