A £1.7 million grant for video suites in police forces to allow vulnerable witnesses to pre-record evidence for use in court was announced today by Home Office Minister Baroness Scotland.
Twenty-eight Police Authorities will receive funding – a grant from the Video Facilities Fund - enabling them to video record more interviews. This will provide a better service for vulnerable witnesses by easing the process of giving evidence.
Baroness Scotland said:
"Witnessing a crime and then going to court to give evidence can be a very distressing experience. This Government is committed to providing better services and support for both victims and witnesses to encourage their co-operation throughout the justice process. This is yet another step in ensuring that we have the measures in place to help protect those most vulnerable.
"We have record numbers of police officers, and overall police funding has risen by 25% in the last four years. The Video Facilities Fund is a further demonstration of the Government's support for the police, and the difficult work they do. It's about making sure people have the tools necessary to do the job."
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