The Witness Care Officers (WCOs) within VIP are:
- Lynn Passantino
- Angie Sugars
- Ruth Adams
- Jennifer Thompson
- Carys Roberts
- Janelle Clews
- Laura Fletcher
- Peter Martin
Jennifer and Janelle look after victims and witnesses involved in Crown Court cases whilst the rest of the WCO's deal with the county's Magistrates' Court cases. Ruth and Laura deal with all initial and intermediate victim and witness contact where those witnesses are involved in matters entered into the criminal justice system. Lynn and Angie are responsible for later contact with those victims and witnesses where a not guilty plea has been entered and the case proceeds to trial. This contact also extends to police officers and other professional witnesses involved in trial cases where their evidence is required. All WCO's are responsible for resulting victims and witnesses when cases are finalised, irrespective of the outcome.
Between them the WCOs ensure that victims and witnesses are kept up to date about the case they are involved in. This means making sure they know what happens at each court appearance of the accused and if and when they may be required to give evidence in court. Where appropriate WCOs can liase with the Witness Service to arrange a visit to court prior to the hearing - this can make a big difference to someone who is unsure what a courtroom is like and where they will have to go to give evidence, and it can really help to allay their concerns.
Vulnerable or intimidated witnesses are sometimes frightened to give evidence in court, and VIP's Witness Care Officers can help to arrange for evidence to be given more informally, or via a TV link instead.
WCOs are a vital link between the Police and the Crown Prosecution Service,and work to make sure police officers and others required to give evidence in court are kept abreast as to the progression of their case.
WCO's will attempt to resolve any problems that victims and witnesses have. There may be domestic issues, for instance if a person has been assaulted by their spouse. WCO's will ensure that, where required and requested by the victim, Victim Support are notified along with the Police Domestic Abuse to provide the necessary help and support.
Crown Prosecution Service
Jackie Scholes is from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). She provides the link between VIP, the CPS and the other criminal justice agencies. Jackie ensures a smooth operation between the problems surrounding victims and witnesses and their needs and the needs of the prosecution team to ensure a successful case. Jackie also makes sure that victims of very serious crimes and their families receive the support and attention they need.
Youth Justice Service
YJS employee Jane Arnold and Social Worker Karen Burgess make up the Youth Justice Service membership at VIP. Jane and Karen deal with issues surrounding youth offenders and the impact their behaviour has on their victims. They might arrange for victims to have a say in any restorative element to an offender's sentence, for example repairing or paying for damaged property. The YJS team works closely with the police to determine whether a court appearance is appropriate or whether a Reprimand or a Final Warning may be issued.
Probation Service
Police Staff, Carys Roberts and Peter Martin, undertake the Probation Services' statutory responsibilities in support of victims and bereaved families where an offender has been sentenced to 12 months or more imprisonment for a violent or sexual offence.
Victims and bereaved families are offered an information service surrounding an offender's situation whilst completing a lengthy prison sentence. Information will include any prison movements, explanation of Licence/Parole conditions, release dates etc, and also includes, in certain cases, the opportunity for the victim to make a Victim Personal Statement that can be presented to a Parole Board Hearing explaining the impact of the crime on the victim.
Police staff work in this area of activity is unique, nationally, but underpins the Criminal Justice Service multi-agency commitment in Warwickshire.
Victim Support
Victim Support has one member of staff within VIP. Wendy Charles, who has been a Victim Support/Witness Service worker for many years, links in with all staff contained within the unit to ensure that victims involved in the criminal justice system are fully supported. Where appropriate, Wendy will arrange pre trial visits for victims and witnesses, and also provide a personal confidential support service with a victim utilising, if necessary, the confidential conference suite within VIP in order to discuss any personal issues surrounding the crime and the effects of crime on individuals.
Anti-Social Behaviour co-ordinator
There is also an Anti-Social Behaviour (ASBO) co-ordinator within the unit. PC Claire Clayton co-ordinates ASBO cases and addresses any ASBO breaches. She links in with the County Council solicitor in order to maintain knowledge and information on all ASBOs granted. Claire will also support those who may be asked to give evidence in court if an ASBO has been breached.