Justice Minister meets therapy dog supporting young witnesses in Northern Ireland courts

Justice Minister Naomi Long meets with therapy dog Sebastian

Northern Ireland’s Justice Minister, Naomi Long, has met Sebastian, a therapy dog who is helping to provide vital comfort and reassurance to children and young people as they prepare to attend court.

Sebastian, a two-year-old St Bernard cross Bernese Mountain Dog, is a certified therapy dog working with the NSPCC’s Young Witness Service.

The service, which is funded by the Department of Justice, offers support to young prosecution witnesses under 18, as well as their parents and carers, before, during and after a trial.

Speaking during her visit, Naomi Long praised the impact of the service and the dedication of those who volunteer their time to help children navigate the justice system.

She said:

“I would like to pay tribute to all those who deliver this incredible service, especially the volunteers who give up their time to help children and young people through what can be an extremely difficult experience.

“Attending court, even just to watch proceedings, can be daunting and intimidating for adults, so it cannot be underestimated the courage it takes for a child or young person to give evidence.

“We know that the Young Witness Service is an invaluable tool in providing support and reassurance to young people, children and their families, helping them to provide their best evidence to the court and, in turn, ensuring that justice is served.

“It has been a particular treat to meet Sebastian and his owner, Megan, who are making a tangible difference to the lives of children and young people as they engage with the criminal justice system.”

Where requested, and when available, Sebastian spends time with young witnesses as they wait at court buildings. His calm presence is intended to reduce stress and help children feel safe as they prepare to give evidence.

The Young Witness Service is available in all crown, magistrate and youth courts across Northern Ireland. Young prosecution witnesses also have the option to provide testimony remotely via videolink, either from a special room in court or at one of the remote evidence centres (RECs).

Jenni Boyce, Partnership Service Manager at NSPCC Northern Ireland’s Young Witness Service, said:

“We were delighted that the Minister of Justice could join us today to meet our new court assistance dog, Sebastian, and find out about the special ways he supports young witnesses while they wait to give their evidence.

“Sebastian will be working alongside our staff and dedicated team of wonderful volunteers who ensure that children feel safe, listened to and supported whilst navigating their way through the criminal justice system.”

The Young Witness Service, along with Sebastian’s support, aims to ensure children and young people are not only protected but empowered when engaging with the courts.