Referrals are accepted for witness preparation, expert testimony, crown consultation, clinical victim impact statements and criminal injuries compensation reports. Since its inception, the Project has provided services to over 600 child witnesses. Over the last eight years, in conjunction with the clinical services, we have been generously supported by Health Canada in our research endeavours. Project therapists work with children on an individual basis, having first assessed their special needs and personal concerns related to testifying. Referrals to the Project are made shortly after charges have been laid which ensures ample time for witness preparation.
Preparation ranges from three to eight sessions, to suit the needs of each individual child.
The protocol includes education, stress reduction, coping strategies, emotional support and advocacy. The education component centres on court procedure and etiquette, oath taking and legal terminology. Innovative aides such as a model courtroom, puppets, a judge's gown, books and videos are used, in particular with the younger children. The stree reduction component includes deep breathing exercises, deep muscle relaxation and cognitive restructuring. Questionnaires developed by the Project help identify the children's most salient fears about court and their knowledge of the legal process.