RUFF JUSTICE

Meet NSPCC dog Connie who helps court kids stay calm

CHILDREN giving evidence in criminal courts in Northern Ireland now have an ally they can turn to for support.

It’s Connie, the NSPCC’S Young Witness Service’s assistance dog.

At three years old, the Black Labrador has been specially trained to be a calming influence on youngsters facing the stress of a traumatic court appearance.

And her handler says a number of people have already been jailed as a result of testimony given by children who have relied on Connie’s calming care over the past 18 months.

She explained: “These children are facing a very difficult time in court and it can be a scary place for many reasons.

“But Connie is available for cases and often the judges ask what her diary is like to see if they can have her in place for these children.

“She is a beautiful Black Labrador and is full of energy but the moment she puts on her harness and steps into the court buildings, she knows she is working and her demeanour changes entirely.

“She will sit with the children, put her head on their knee, let them stroke her and cuddle her, let them do what they need to feel safe and calm in these alien surroundings.

“And on occasions she has helped adults too. One lady I remember in particular was trembling with nerves and fear and Connie walked over to her an put her head on this lady’s lap.

“It was lovely. The lady put her hands on Connie and she started to feel calmer.”

The NSPCC’S Young Witness Service is available to young witnesses in all types of crime in every Crown, Magistrate and Youth court. And it’s funded by the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland to help children give evidence in court.

A charity spokesman said: “Giving evidence is distressing for anyone. But for children who’ve been through something as horrific as sexual abuse, it’s even harder.

“Going to court to talk about what happened can add to the trauma they’ve already suffered.

“We provide free, independent and confidential support and assistance to children and young people under 18 years old who have to attend court as witnesses in Northern Ireland.

“NSPCC workers and volunteers provide information and advice to children and young people – as well as their family, friends and supporters – before, during and after the trial.”

And at two courts in Northern Ireland, Connie is a special addition to the help on offer.

She is available for children who are struggling to give evidence for many reasons including fear, nervousness and she also helps children with conditions such as ADHD and autism who are needed in court proceedings.

Outside her serious court life, Connie lives at home in Co Down with two dogs and two cats.

Her handler added: “So far she has worked for the NSPCC in 13 court cases but that means she will be used for more than the court appearances, she will be there for interviews and much more.

“It’s wonderful to see her work and it’s obvious she really gets something out of it. She works hard but it doesn’t seem to tire her out.

“The NSPCC got lucky with Connie.”