NSPCC NI’s Young Witness Service launches appeal for volunteers

NSPCC Northern Ireland’s Young Witness Service (YWS) provides free, independent and confidential support and assistance to children and young people under 18 who attend court as prosecution witnesses.

YWS workers and volunteers provide information and advice to children and young people (as well as their family/carers) before and during a trial. 

The charity has launched an appeal for adult volunteers of all ages and all backgrounds, and from all over Northern Ireland, to help deliver the service, which covers every court in NI.

Working alongside social workers and trained staff, YWS volunteers support the young person, help reduce their anxiety and help them prepare for this difficult task.

Volunteers may also have the opportunity to work alongside our court therapy dog, Sebastian, who spends time with children while they wait to give evidence.

The Young Witness Service needs people in all areas of Northern Ireland. No previous experience is necessary as full training is provided.

Volunteers are expected to cover at least one case per month at a court location convenient to them.

In the six-month period between April and September 2025, YWS volunteers supported 140 children and young people.

Evidence shows that young witnesses’ stress, anxiety and risk of further traumatisation are reduced as a result of the work of the YWS, and the young person is better able to give their best evidence under cross-examination.

If you want to find out more about joining the YWS team and making a real difference to young people going through the criminal justice system, email: rachel.nulty@nspcc.org.uk or search ‘Young Witness Service – Volunteer’ online.

Closing date is November 23.