For witnesses and victims of crime

The Criminal Justice Support Network has a network of trained volunteers who can:

• provide emotional support to the person when talking to the police
• assist the person understand their options
• alert the police to any needs the person might have (e.g. rest periods/breaks)
• alert the police when the person might not have understood questions, or to simplify and modify the questions
• improve communication
• help organise referrals or follow up support at court if required

For people with intellectual disability suspected of involvement in a crime

The Criminal Justice Support Network has a network of trained volunteers who can:

• assist the person understand their rights
• assist the person exercise their options
• alert the police to any needs the person might have (e.g. medication etc.)
• alert the police if the person might not have understood questions or, is becoming confused during the interview
• alert the police when the language used needs to be simplified or questions need rephrasing
• organise legal advice whilst in police custody from a volunteer solicitor of the CJSN
• help the person understand and remember any legal advice they may receive at the police station
• help organise referrals or follow up support at court if required

The areas covered by the Sydney office (based in Redfern):

• Sydney metropoliton area (including Hornsby, Richmond, Penrith, Camden, Campbelltown and the Sutherland Shire)

The areas covered by the Hunter office (based in Newcastle):

• Newcastle and surrounding areas (including Maitland, Cessnock and Toronto)
• Taree

The areas covered by the Illawarra/Shoalhaven office (based in Wollongong):

• Wollongong and surrounding areas (including Thirroul and Kiama)
• Nowra
• Batemans Bay

Areas covered by CJSN Outreach

• Central Coast - areas around Gosford, Woy Woy, The Entrance and Wyong
• Central West - areas around Bathurst, Orange, Mudgee, Dubbo and Parkes
• Mid North Coast - areas around Port Macquarie and Kempsey
• Riverina - areas around Wagga Wagga

CJSN Outreach service can provide referrals to regional areas of NSW when support is required outside of the areas listed above.