The Dundee Justice Hub was opened on Friday by the Lord President, Lord Carloway, Sheriff Principal Gillian Wade KC and Justice Secretary Angela Constance.

The event celebrated the formal launch of the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service’s latest specialist vulnerable evidence facilities created to support witnesses to “give their best evidence”. Alongside bespoke accommodation for staff, the judiciary, visiting justice professionals and witnesses are two digitised civil courtrooms, which became operational on 3 June.

Sheriff Principal Gillian Wade KC, Sheriff Principal of Tayside, Central and Fife, said: “The Dundee Justice Hub is a visionary and pioneering project which I am proud to see opening in this Sheriffdom. It has involved the collaboration of a number of Justice Partners, all of whom share the belief that justice should be accessible, empathetic and trauma informed.

“As well as providing a natural home for the resolution of local disputes it secures a safe space from which the most vulnerable witnesses can be supported to give their best evidence without having to fear the additional stress of appearing in a conventional courtroom. It has been a privilege to work with all those helping us lead the way in the modernisation of the delivery of justice and the way in which it is seen to be done.”

David Fraser, SCTS executive director court operations, said: “I’m delighted that these bespoke facilities are now operational and available for witnesses across Tayside, Central and Fife. They help minimise trauma for our more vulnerable witnesses who give evidence, and are an essential part in supporting the delivery of justice and securing best evidence.”

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “This new hub, backed by more than £2 million of Scottish Government funding, means that vulnerable witnesses and children are supported across the Tayside, Central and Fife sheriffdom to give their very best evidence as early as possible in the process, and in advance of trial.

“Putting victims and witnesses at the heart of the justice system is a key part of our Vision for Justice. These Evidence by Commissioner suites will ensure witnesses have access to specialist, modern and purpose-built suites to pre-record their evidence, helping to reduce the risk of re-traumatisation.

“The Dundee Justice Hub is a good example of collaborative working between justice partners and I would like to thank all those involved in this important project.”