Legislation designed to improve support for people with learning difficulties who claim sexual abuse will not be used because agencies do not have the necessary resources to fund new measures, writes Sally Gillen.
Under the Youth and Criminal Guidance Act, which comes into force next month, a range of special measures, such as videotaping evidence and providing screens in court, can be used in cases involving vulnerable or intimidated witnesses.
But Kathryn Stone, director of charity Voice UK, told a home affairs select committee inquiry into abuse in children’s homes, that police authorities and the court services had not been given any extra money to implement the measures.
She said: "The trial process could be made a lot better for vulnerable witnesses if the special measures of the Youth and Criminal Guidance Act were properly funded and delivered."
She added that all professionals involved in the criminal justice system should be made aware of the vulnerability of survivors of child abuse, and should enlist the help of organisations that provide counselling and therapeutic services.
Read full transcript of interview with learning disability director Rob Greig
16 January 2002
Youth Justice and the Youth Justice Board
26 August 2008
Substance misuse
15 August 2008
Details of government consultations
21 August 2008
Private Member Bills
25 July 2008
Government Legislation
25 July 2008
