23 October 2024
Jurors in 14 Crown Courts can now self-refer themselves for six free counselling sessions with specially trained counsellors, as well as access a 24/7 helpline for support
The courts, which include the Old Bailey, have been chosen to take part in a six-month pilot scheme as they hear some of the most serious cases.
The scheme is funded by the Ministry of Justice and will be provided by Vita Health Group.
Justice minister Heidi Alexander said jurors hear ‘distressing and traumatic evidence in often demanding, long and high-profile cases’.
