You may be called as a witness by the prosecution to give evidence in the trial. If so, you’ll be asked to share what you saw, heard or what happened to you.
While a criminal trial can provide justice for victims and survivors of terrorism, as well as bereaved friends and relatives, reliving distressing details about the incident can be extremely difficult.
We’re here to support you before, during and after the trial.
Understanding the criminal justice system
The Support Hub for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism can:
- Help victims, survivors and bereaved families to navigate the criminal justice system.
- Explain your rights under the Victims’ Code and Witness Charter.
- Work with agencies and individuals in the criminal justice system on your behalf.
- Liaise with trusted legal partners for practical advice and incident-specific information.
- Refer you to specialist support services, such as the Witness Service.
- Provide trauma-informed emotional support before, during and after legal processes.
The Witness Service
With your consent, the Support Hub can refer you to the Witness Service.
The Witness Service can provide support throughout the court process if you’re a victim or survivor, or if you’re a bereaved family member or friend of someone who has died because of a terrorist incident.
The Witness Service can:
- Give you information to help you understand how the court process works.
- Arrange an in-person pre-trial visit to the court, or a virtual pre-trial visit (including a virtual court tour). This allows you to see what the court might look like, understand where the different people will be, and learn what will happen on the day so you feel more prepared before giving evidence.
- Support you throughout the trial and answer any questions you may have about court proceedings.
- Signpost you to other services that may be able to provide further or specialist support to suit your needs.
Media attention around criminal trials
Terrorism trials can attract considerable interest from journalists and the wider community, which can be challenging.
We have information about dealing with media attention if you’re being contacted by the press, if you’re thinking about contacting or speaking to a journalist or reporter, or if you’re dealing with comments on social media.
