BPS responds to new pilot scheme for jurors

Responding to launch of the new pilot to provide more support for jurors, Dr Roman Raczka, President of the British Psychological Society, said: 

"The BPS has long highlighted the insufficient psychological support for those who undertake jury service. It's therefore really encouraging to see the introduction of this new pilot scheme, which should result in a significant improvement in protecting jurors' mental wellbeing.

"Jurors are members of the public who have been required to join court processes from their everyday lives. Exposure to material far beyond their usual experience is a real possibility, which could cause a severely damaging impact on their mental health if faced with particularly distressing and traumatising cases.

"We will be closely monitoring the scheme's results and are committed to working with the Ministry of Justice as it develops. We are hopeful this will result in proper psychological support for jurors being available during and after trials. This will ultimately mean a better experience for everyone within the criminal justice system."