14 December 2006

A new website has been launched in a bid to help witnesses to feel more confident about appearing in court.

Concerned that vulnerable individuals could be daunted by the prospect of giving evidence in court, the Scottish executive has launched the new website in a bid to reduce anxiety.

The online portal gives advice for children, young people and adults on several issues, including information on court appearances, virtual tours of the court and what to expect when providing evidence.

Johann Lamont, deputy justice minister, told the Scotsman: "This new website, with its clear, user-friendly format, will further help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with attending court and ensure witnesses can play their full part in giving evidence so that justice is done."

She added that a variety of measures were set to be rolled-out across Scotland in the next 12 months.

The website also has a section on words and meanings, which features an A to Z to court terminology, to help people to prepare for the language they will hear.

© Adfero Ltd

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