Joseph's story: Supporting families through the court process
Meet Joseph, a volunteer at our Side by Side project at Maidstone Crown Court, where we support defendants and their families as they go through the court process.
"There is some support available for victims of crime and witnesses, but not much for defendants and their families."
I’m studying a Sociology and Criminology degree, and I was looking for a placement as part of that. I had originally applied to work at a prison, but the vetting took so long that I applied here as a stopgap while I waited. I’ve loved it so much that I’ve stayed! It really is a fantastic project. There is some support available for victims of crime and witnesses, but not much for defendants and their families.
We actively approach families outside court, explain what Pact is and what we do and ask if we can help in any way. It can be daunting to approach large groups of people who can be very emotional, but most people I speak to are friendly and appreciate the offer.
"I applied here as a stopgap. I've loved it so much that I've stayed!"
Some people will be used to the process. Others are new to it and are completely baffled and confused by the experience. The legal process can be terribly slow, and it can be hanging over their heads for years. You can imagine how stressful that is, and that’s before the trial itself even begins, which can itself be excruciating.
It’s important to stay objective. I try not to give any thought to whether they are innocent or guilty, and just try to remember that the kids and families have nothing to do with the offence.
It can be difficult to see what people go through. Families can often have a really strong reactions to a verdict, and then they are left to pick up the pieces afterwards. So we gently let them know we are here to support in any way we can.
People often come to us afterwards and let us know how grateful they are for our help, regardless of which way the verdict went. Sometimes they don’t realise they even needed support until the trial is over, because they’ve been in survival mode.
Our work makes it easier for them to get through the experience, and we are helping people at the toughest of times.
