HILLINGDON: Special court for domestic violence

8:08am Saturday 10th May 2008

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Victims of domestic violence will have cases heard in a specialist room due to open next week.

The court room at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court, in Harefield Road, will be aimed at making sure cases are dealt with effectively.

Cases will be heard in the same room, on the same day each week and they will be identified when they are passed to the court.

It has been set up after inspiration from a domestic violence forum made up of councillors, police officers and representatives of health organisations.

For the past 12 months, Hillingdon Council, Hillingdon Police, the court and probation service have worked together to develop the idea.

Councillor Mary O'Connor, chairman of the domestic violence forum, said: "The specialist domestic violence court will mean victims of domestic violence in the borough can feel safer about making a complaint of violence.

"Their case will be heard by magistrates who are trained in this type of case and who are aware of the effects it can have on people.

"We believe people should not feel they are to blame for domestic violence and this special court will help them feel they can come forward."

The victims of domestic violence will enter the room through a concealed entrance if needed.

A domestic violence advocate will attend to give support to their clients.

Councillor Janet Gardner, the victims' advocate for Hillingdon, said: "When the court is up and running, victims will feel more confident in contacting the police.

"They will know that their case will be heard quickly by magistrates specifically trained in all the issues surrounding domestic violence, and they will be strengthened by the support networks that will be there for them."

The first case will be heard on Wednesday, May 14.