Decoa Graham, a mother from Coleraine, Northern Ireland, has found fulfillment by volunteering with NSPCC Northern Ireland’s Young Witness Service after dedicating herself to raising her sons with additional needs.
A Northern Ireland woman has opened up about how her role in supporting young people who attend court as witnesses, has enriched her life - so much so she started to train to become a social work er.
The free and independent service, which is funded by the Department of Justice NI and the only one of its kind in the UK, was created in 1999 to support children who have to go to court as prosecution witnesses. "I was really inspired at the thought of being able to do something so worthwhile and also the opportunity to be trained in something new to help me support young people.
"There’s no denying you can hear some sad and shocking things in this role and, certainly, it’s been brought home to me that life can be really tough for some children. However, that’s what makes the volunteering so worthwhile – you know you are needed and you know you’re helping someone when they are in a stressful situation.
"I also met existing volunteers and heard directly from them what it was like to be a part of the Service and then shadowed them to see exactly what was involved. It was all really fascinating.
Volunteer Young Witnesses Court Support NSPCC Social Work
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Northern Lights Offer Stunning Display in Northern IrelandStargazers in Northern Ireland had a spectacular opportunity to witness the Northern Lights on Thursday night due to increased solar activity. The Met Office predicted a strong chance of visibility, allowing locals to experience this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
Read more »
NI boss O'Neill offers update on Ronan Hale switchRonan Hale is in the process of switching from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland
Read more »
Northern Ireland Woman Climbs Highest Peak To Support Wife Battling Ovarian CancerLinda Negus from Newry is taking on Friends of the Cancer Centre’s Slieve Donard Challenge this weekend to raise funds for a cause close to her heart after her wife Carolyn was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Read more »
Maze Prison Site Could Be 'Huge Catalyst' for Northern IrelandMichelle O'Neill, the first minister of Northern Ireland, has stated that the former Maze prison site could be a significant driver of economic development and growth. She highlighted ongoing discussions with National Museums NI about how their expertise in historic buildings could contribute to the redevelopment.
Read more »
The Draft Northern Ireland Public Health Bill explainedThe draft bill is currently out for public consultation and has sparked concerns and controversy, particularly around vaccinations.
Read more »
Drug Dealing Spreads to Multiple Hospitals in Northern IrelandDrug dealing has become a growing problem at hospitals across Northern Ireland, according to the chair of the Northern Ireland Policing Board. Mukesh Sharma said the issue began in the emergency department of one hospital but is now spreading to multiple institutions.
Read more »