Witness Service Court-based Volunteer (Barnsley Magistrates' Court)

It'san exciting time to join Victim Support, as we prepare to begin delivery of the Witness Service from April 2026. We look forward to welcoming current Witness Service staff and volunteers to Victim Support-andwe'realso now beginning recruitment for several new roles and to fill vacant positions.

Aboutthe WitnessService

The Witness Service provides free,independent support to anywitnessgiving evidence in criminal courts in England and Wales-both for the prosecution and thedefence.

Our trained staff and volunteers help people understand what to expect before, during and after a trial, and offer practical and emotional support every step of the way, so witnesses can give their best evidence.

The Witness Service also supports bereaved familymembers,andfriends and family who areaccompanyingwitnesses in court.

Why join the Witness Service now

This is an exceptional opportunity to help us ensure a smooth transition and shape a high-quality, high-impact and trauma-informed service-so every witness feels informed, supported and more confident in court.

Witness Service Volunteers provide support to victims and witnesses of crime prior to and during the court process helping them to feel safe and informed.

Why volunteer with us?

• Make a difference- you willvolunteerdirectly with victims andwitnesses.
• Gain skills and experience- you will receive trainingon how to providepractical and emotionalsupport.
• Join our community- you will be part of a large communityof over2,000 volunteers and staff.
• Beyond your role - attend one of our many events/webinars and joinone of oursixEquality, Diversity & Inclusionnetworks.

Whatdowe ask of you?

In order tojoin us as aWitness ServiceVolunteer, you must:

• Be 18 years of ageor over.
• Be able to volunteer for at least1 dayper week, for at least 12 months.
• Undertake training-this includes virtualtrainingdaysas well as completing online learning modules.
• Undertake an enhancedDBS check& be part of the DBS update service.
• Be able to provide two satisfactory references.
• Have an active email addressthat you are comfortable usingin order toengage with VS communications.

Expenses

• All Victim Support volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering, including travel and lunch.

Diversity Matters

• VS strives torepresentthe diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating anenvironment where all staff andvolunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.
• VS is also a Disability ConfidentEmployerand we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.
• We arehappy to make reasonable adjustments to support you through the application process.

Want to find out more?

If you have any questions or would like to find out moreabout this role, please contact

Download therole description below