The justice system has improved physical accessibility, for example through providing ramps for wheelchairs in court buildings, but it still has much to learn about communication ‘ramps’ – visual tools like pictures, symbols and figures to support communication (see, for example, Schalling, 2009). While few people rely on ‘augmentative and alternative communication’ in their daily lives, many in the justice system can benefit from aids to improve the quality and effectiveness of communication, reduce challenging behaviour and increase assertiveness (Communication Matters, 2013). Visual aids are less taxing to auditory working memory and provide concrete reminders to those with limited understanding of spoken language.

Section 30 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 enables a vulnerable witness to be ‘provided with such device as the court considers appropriate with a view to enable questions or answers to be communicated’ (see also Ministry of Justice, 2011a, paras 3.103–122; and Judicial College, 2013, chapter 5, para 53). This is a separate special measure from the section 29 intermediary provision; in practice, applications for communication aids seem to be confined to cases in which intermediaries are appointed.

This chapter describes a range of aids and the way they are used. These include aids to reinforce ‘rules’ when being questioned, such as ‘Don’t guess’, as well as stress reduction strategies. Being questioned in the police interview or at court inevitably heightens anxiety, sometimes to the point where the witness is unable to continue. Stress is likely to impair accurate communication. Vulnerable witnesses with access to visual tools are often more confident and reliable communicators. Exploring the need for communication aids and stress reduction strategies is a key element of the intermediary’s assessment process. Development of the appropriate tools requires preparation time and may involve a second assessment appointment. Their use can mean additional time is needed for questioning but they can also shorten the questioning process by keeping the witness calm and focused.

Recognising the value of communication aids