NCJ Number
168323
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: (1997) Pages: 113-132
Date Published
1997
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This paper describes and evaluates the effectiveness of a child victim witness program in Ontario, Canada.
Abstract
Children who are victims of sexual abuse can participate in the criminal prosecution of their abusers, but often not without further trauma. Communities in the United States and Canada have developed child victim advocate programs to lessen the trauma experienced by children who participate in that process. Two groups of volunteers, 12 caretakers and 14 investigative and court professionals, were interviewed to evaluate the effectiveness of one such program, the Child Victim Witness Program in Ontario, Canada. In addition to preparing child witnesses, the Program also coordinates the efforts of child protection, the Crown Attorney's office, and the Regional Police. Though the program was found to be facing some systemic challenges, respondents were generally positive about its usefulness in preparing children to testify and in enabling children to be more relaxed during the criminal court process. However, findings indicate a need for the following: (1) close collaboration between victim advocates and investigative workers; (2) early and frequent discussions between victim advocates and victims and their families; (3) joint training for all personnel involved in the process; and (4) peer review of procedures and protocols. References