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Crown Court: Mental Health Services

Answer

Judges have access to a range of confidential services delivered by our Judicial Assistance Provider, which are tailored to support them in their judicial roles including specific support for those judges hearing distressing cases in the Crown Court. This support includes access to a 24/7 Judicial Helpline and counselling service, and access to the Trial Support Service, which is specifically designed to provide three stage support (pre-trial, during trial and after trial) in particularly distressing cases. In addition, salaried judges within the Crown Court have an opportunity to speak confidentially with qualified professionals about the cumulative impact of their work. Additional support is also available following critical incidents, alongside peer support from designated welfare judges. Further resources, such as occupational health services and specialist therapeutic support, are also available where needed.

Court Officials working in Crown Courts have access to professional critical incident and trauma support during and after a trial. Court Officials have access to the Employee Assistance Programme, and the Department has a team of Mental Health Allies that are trained to support staff.

Barristers are not employed by the Ministry of Justice and would therefore obtain support via their employers or professional bodies.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

4771

Session

2026-27

Subjects

Staff Crown Court Mental health services

Link

View this Written question on www.parliament.uk