How do you qualify as an R.I.? Have to be approved by the Court Very strict recruitment and selection –90% Speech & Language Therapists but there are other professionals including Psychologists and Specialist Teachers. Have training in the legal process. There are 2 examinations – one written, one practical There is ongoing CPD and training through support groups and mentoring.

Since the introduction of Intermediaries in 2004 there have been over 7000 matches made by NCA ‘Matching Service’. This equates to at least 100 matches a month.

ABE 2011 – ‘An intermediary can assist a witness to communicate by explaining questions put to and answers given by a vulnerable witness.’ Therefore the Initial Contact with the witness is vital in making this assessment to inform your decision making approach as to the need for an intermediary.

How to Apply E mail your proforma request to NCA. NCA matching unit will make direct contact with you They will discuss urgent, intermediate and delayed deployment (recent deployment for rape was less than 7 hours) Intermediary will call you and its YOUR responsibility to arrange the logistics and venue for assessment and interview.

What an Intermediary does! Meets with the witness and Interviewer to gain rapport. Assesses the witness' communication skills, this will take approximately 1 hour. The Interviewer should be present at this assessment...why Advises how to facilitate communication. Provides the Interviewer with a short, bullet pointed report advising on questioning strategies. Is present at the ABE interview.

Assessments Methods Comprehension and spoken language skills. Speech & fluency. Literacy skills. Word finding skills. Question types e.g. leading. Time concepts.

Non verbal communication. Attention & listening skills. Sequencing ability. Recall ability. Suggestibility. Social communication skills. Areas of rapport. Literal understanding e.g. idioms

Set scene, introduce topic. Use of proper names. What?, Where?, Who?, When?. Avoid How? and Why? Simple concrete vocabulary. Use short sentences as recommended. Avoid complex negatives. Recap, providing a structure. Typical Recommendations

Pre Trial and Trial Makes a report to the CPS. Attends pre trial. (not always) Attends court to advise counsel/judge on communication, referred to as a GRH (Ground Rules Hearing) this is now statute. Will be with the witness when giving evidence, whatever their location.

R.I.’s DO NOT…. examine or cross-examine the witness. protect the witness. change the substance of the evidence. act for the prosecution or defence. coach the witness. investigate the case. act as witness supporter. act as interpreter.

The Intermediary Oath

Truth Lies and Consequences???

Help in Interview?