Child Witness Program

When criminal charges are laid, young victims and witnesses in Waterloo Region, Guelph, and Wellington County are referred to our Child Witness Program. Our team ensures these children and youth, and their families, are supported throughout the court process. Our services are tailored to each person’s unique needs and include:

• Providing crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals.
• Providing emotional support and coping strategies to reduce stress and anxiety. This includes the enhanced mental health supports provided by our Facility Dog Monet, who provides warmth and comfort.
• Accompanying them during important case-related meetings and at court dates, so they are not alone.
• Helping parents and caregivers to be effective in supporting their children.
• Providing court updates and on-going assessment and advocacy throughout.
• Providing court preparation for a child or youth who is required to testify in court.
• Assessing the need for testimonial aids and advocating for testimonial aids to be permitted while testifying in court.
• Aiding with completing Victim Impact Statements, so they have the opportunity to share how the experience has impacted them.
• Providing post court debriefs so families understand the verdict and/or sentencing.
• Providing information and support that connects young people, and their families, with community resources.
• Offering a welcoming and safe place that fosters healing, hope, and well-being.