Sydney WDVCAS assists both female and male children and young people. Sometimes Sydney WDVCAS is required to assist a child or young person who comes to court as a witness in a domestic violence related matter. A child will only be required to give evidence if it is in the interests of justice to do so, and will always have the right to give evidence by closed circuit television. A child also has the right to have a support person with them at court when giving evidence.
WDVCAS runs a pre-hearing clinic in conjunction with police prosecutors for victims of domestic violence. The clinics provide the opportunity for victims of domestic violence with an upcoming hearing, to meet with a trained domestic violence prosecutor before their hearings and gain information.
This can be an important step for a child or young person to familiarise them with the court environment, and help address some of the fears they may have around giving evidence or the court process. Supporting a child to give evidence in court, particularly one of young age, can be an important part of achieving orders for their ongoing safety from domestic violence.
Children experiencing domestic violence can sometimes be conflicted about how to proceed in cases against family. They may also want to stay in their homes, with parents that they love, but need assurance that they will have protection from any further domestic violence. Sydney WDVCAS has assisted young people in this situation to access ongoing help and services to ensure the child is protected and able to carry on living with their parents in a safe environment.
Sydney WDVCAS is able to offer assistance to children and young people from their initial contact with police. WDVCAS can advocate for children and young people, and refer them and their families to appropriate services on their behalf. WDVCAS can for example, secure legal advice for clients or contact Victims Services to obtain further counselling and financial support for victims of domestic violence.
WDVCAS can also work with other service providers in a child’s or young person’s life to ensure comprehensive and ongoing support for the child or young person to assist them in regaining the stability they need after court proceedings. This can include working with schools and counsellors to make sure a child or young person receives the help that is right for them.
