With clear and concise guidelines on how child witnesses are interviewed it may come as something of an alarm for those with no experience to learn that these are seldom followed.
Often with no suitable adult and with little regard to a minors routine, the most precious of us all, our children are often subjected to an ordeal which is in no way in their best interests with the guidelines flaunted providing no protection to their well being.
It is highly recommended that a planning phase is carried out before any vulnerable witness provides a statement to ensure just that but more often than not they are dragged in before even having a chance to come to terms with whatever they are being quizzed about.
Not eaten? - no matter they'll be back soon (5 or six hours later having missed 2 meals and their usual bedtime).
Suitable adult? - Could you wait outside please while I ask some inappropriate questions in private?
Is that everything you can tell us? - Don't worry, its not taped or video recorded and we'll get you back in again and again until we get the answers that fit our enquiry!
Is this really how we want our children treated? No didn't think you would agree with it, but it's what happens time and time again.
Please come and vote 'YES' to a petition to ensure that guidelines become manditory to protect our children from those who are supposed to ensure their safety.
<-REGISTER YOUR VOTE HERE ->
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