Module 7.4

7.4 Police Duties on First Contact with a Child Witness 

When police first interact with a child witness, they must:

• speak calmly and respectfully and reassure the child that they are safe
• avoid blame, pressure or judgement
• limit the number and length of interviews
• ensure the child is not interviewed in the presence of suspects
• Where appropriate, a trusted adult should be present  unless this creates risk.