Remote Live video links in Northamptonshire set to help vulnerable witnesses give evidence in court

Two new remote video link centres which can connect to Northamptonshire and UK-based courts will soon be made available for use by vulnerable witnesses required to give evidence.

The remote links will enable some of the most vulnerable witnesses to give their evidence and be cross-examined without having to enter a court room or building and are one of a number of measures to help reduce anxiety, trauma and stress.

The new remote links – one based in central Northampton and the other in North Northamptonshire – have been made possible through funding from the Police Crime and Fire Commissioner, Stephen Mold, and are another step towards ensuring that victims and witnesses are truly at the heart of the Criminal Justice System.

Voice Witness Care Officers will work closely with partner agencies including HMCTS, the Police Service, Witness Service, Crown Prosecution Service, Serenity and the Sunflower Centre to develop processes for access to the remote live link sites which are hoped to be in use from early Spring 2019.