Evaluation of the Child Sexual Offence Evidence Pilot: Process Evaluation Report

Abstract

This is the first report of the evaluation of the Child Sexual Offence Evidence Pilot (the Pilot) in NSW. It sets out the findings of the process evaluation, which is intended to assess the barriers and facilitators to implementation of the Pilot, and whether the Pilot has been effective in introducing changes to support its objectives. The Pilot has three major components. It introduces: · measures to expand the use of pre-recorded evidence given by child victims; · 'Children’s Champions' (Witness Intermediaries), based on the UK Witness Intermediary Scheme; and · provision for appointment of specialist District Court judges trained in management of child sexual assault matters.