Jurors who have experienced mental and emotional strain following
difficult cases, such as the Lucy Letby trial, will be entitled
to free counselling sessions as part of plans announced today (8
May 2024).
Many people find their experience of jury service to be
fulfilling and are supported throughout by full-time court
staff. But for those who do experience upset, further help is
currently limited to signposting to a GP or the Samaritans – this
can leave some to feel isolated following their civic duty.
The new pilot would provide specialist expert support for jurors
offering 6 free counselling sessions - alongside a 24/7 telephone
helpline for round-the-clock triage support, advice and
information.
The justice system depends on the public joining a jury when they
are called, and today's news will provide further reassurance
that those who hear distressing evidence of murder, abuse and
cruelty will get the support they need, when they need it.
The programme will be piloted in 15 courts across England and
Wales from Summer 2024.
Justice Minister said:
Juries are the cornerstone of the criminal justice system, and
sitting on a trial is rightly regarded as the ultimate
responsibility of an honest, law-abiding citizen.
This pilot is an important step in assessing how we can best
support jurors, who perform such a vital civic duty, often in
complex, high-profile cases.
Crown Courts in London, Liverpool, Mold, Birmingham, Bristol and
Teesside are among the regions selected for the scheme.
Welcoming the announcement, Senior Lecturer in Forensic
Psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University, Dr Hannah
Fawcett said:
This pilot project is a positive first step in recognising some
of the potential psychological challenges of participating in
jury duty and supporting those who have been affected by
distressing cases.
I welcome the introduction of specialist wellbeing support for
jurors, who play such an important role in creating a safe and
fair society for us all.
The pilot will be funded by the Ministry of Justice and will run
for approximately ten months, during which time HMCTS will
identify how best to direct resources on an ongoing basis to
support the jurors who give their time to serve the criminal
justice system.
This announcement comes during Juror Appreciation Week, to mark
the country's gratitude for everyone who gives up their time to
ensure justice is done.
Note to editors
The pilot is due to be launched in Summer 2024 following the
standard department procurement process.
