Witnesses will get a security escort, counselling services and points of contact under new protection procedures unveiled yesterday.

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Kim Wilson, has announced the creation of a Witness Care Unit with dedicated staff to "keep victims and witnesses informed and positively engaged in the trial process".

From the moment someone is charged to the conclusion of a case, witnesses will now have access to a Witness Care Officer and a special Unit to orientate them to the criminal justice system.

The facility — which features a secure room — will be staffed by two Witness Care Officers, two members of the Department of Public Prosecutions, and two representatives of the Bermuda Police Service.

It will coordinate counselling services and provide a security escort for witnesses to and from court. The facility will also provide support for vulnerable witnesses such as those with physical or learning disabilities, or communication difficulties.

Senator Wilson said: "The subject of vulnerable witnesses has become a germane priority of the Ministry of Justice.

"In recent times, there has been an increase in both the level of serious crime, and prosecutions which have been hindered by a lack of witness participation.

"This has led to a perceived lack of public confidence in the criminal justice system.

"In addition, two critical issues that continue to be the subject of public concern are the growing culture among groups of young people to engage in violent criminal activity and the lack of witness protection options available to Police.

"In developing the Witness Care Unit model it was acknowledged that with the provision of better information and support, witnesses are more likely to feel less intimidated, confident and more willing to support the prosecution process, both in relation to their current case and in the future.

"This leads to positive outcomes for the criminal justice system, with less failed cases and more offences being brought to justice.

"More importantly, it also leads to a more positive experience for victims and witnesses who feel satisfied with the steps and measures taken to assist them."

Police will be responsible for assessing the needs of a witness on their first interview, to determine whether they need "special assistance".

The Witness Care Officer will then keep them informed of proceedings and assist them with any practical requirements.

Sen. Wilson said: "Where a victim or witness has particular needs — be it the absence of childcare on a trial day or intimidation by the accused — reasonable actions to effectively alleviate these pressures will be taken in good time.

"Given a single point of contact to the criminal justice system, the victim or witness should be in no doubt about whom they can call for assistance.

"Through the detailed needs assessment, the support required by witnesses may be clearly identified and, with inter-Governmental assistance, their needs may be met."

The Unit will be managed by the Department of Public Prosecutions.

Sen. Wilson said: "Victims and witnesses deserve our support. With improved communication and treatment of witnesses, I have no doubt that the criminal justice system will be de-mystified and that increased numbers of witnesses will attend court and give evidence."