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approximately 200 specialist officers investigate around
4,000 alleged cases of sexual and physical abuse against
children every year.
“I had never had any previous professional dealings with
police, and knowing that the witness intermediaries’
interactive role was new, I was naturally hesitant because
I didn’t know what to expect. Since becoming involved
with the program however, I am unequivocally impressed
by the professionalism, sophistication and commitment of
the police in the NSW Child Abuse Squad. Indeed, I feel
privileged to be able to work alongside them and assist in
the performance of their critically important role. I cannot
help but feel how lucky the children of NSW are having these
police officers vigilantly protecting innocence.
“If a matter goes to trial, the witness intermediary must
prepare a lengthy report based on their assessment
and attendance at the police interview, which makes
recommendations to the court. In my experience, after
submitting my report, I was asked to attend court and sit
in the witness box to talk the court through my report and
recommendations, and answer questions including from the
judge and defence counsel.
“The witness intermediary then leaves the court room and
goes to a separate area where the victim remains during the
process. This room is audio and visually linked to the court
room. The victim is asked questions through the audio-
visual link. The witness intermediary’s role is to intervene in
proceedings by requesting the judge to provide directions
that allow the implementation of a previously agreed
communication strategy.
“So how are we doing? DCI Peter Yeomans reports that
the witness intermediary role, ‘has been a major success,
assisting NSW Police from the Child Abuse Squad to
conduct formal interviews of those children who have been
victims of sexual assault. Their expertise and professionalism
aids in establishing the best evidence of those most
vulnerable in our society. This assistance continues through
the court process which not only supports in gaining best
evidence from the young witness, but provides consistency
for the child which adds to their overall welfare and well-
being.’
“This is truly a marriage of my old and new worlds and
thanks to my fellow witness intermediaries, I’m sure it will be
a long and happy association.”
Their expertise and
professionalism aids in
establishing the best
evidence of those most
vulnerable in our society.
resource
SPEECH PATHOLOGY
2017
guide
Your guide to speech pathology resources
Bookings are now
open for the
2017 Annual
speech pathology
Resource Guide!
The resource guide is the ultimate guide to
resources, services, tools and products for
the speech pathology profession.
Members can enter a free submission
and take advantage of discounted display
advertising.
For more information visit the publications
page of the SPA website or contact
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December 2016 Speak Out 31