New support service lends an ear to stressed out court attendees

The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service launched the service in collaboration with Edinburgh Interfaith Association.

The service sees volunteers provide confidential support to court users who are stressed out by the experience.

Eighteen volunteers have been trained and will attend the court during busy periods to listen to those who need to talk as well as to help people navigate the building or refer them to other services.

Edinburgh interim sheriff clerk Les McIntosh said: “Having someone available to listen can be a real comfort at a stressful time and we are pleased to be leading the way by making this available.

“This initiative has the full backing of Sheriff Principal Mhairi Stephen, QC, and has the potential to provide a valuable service to court users, particularly those attending for the first time or are distressed or upset.”