Key points
Personnel should be kept to a minimum to avoid intimidating or inhibiting the child. In most circumstances, it is best for only the two interviewers to be present in the room with the child.
In certain cases, however, a child may wish for, and benefit from having, a support adult present.
How to do it
This should not be a witness or potential witness, nor someone who has a personal investment, in the case. The support person should generally not be a parent though there are times when this is the only way to get the child to speak to you.
The presence of a support person might be a hindrance to the child, especially if that adult is someone the child has a particular relationship with, the child may feel uncomfortable about them knowing intimate details of their personal life or events. The interviewers will take the lead in determining the appropriateness of the need for a support person in conjunction with the child.
If a support adult is to be present, they must be made aware by the interviewers that they should not participate in the interview itself (i.e. no answering of questions, or prompting of the child). They must also be advised to control their body language and facial expressions and avoid conveying any emotions or intentions towards the child. Their role is to support in the sense that their presence during the interview is comforting and reassuring. If a support person is present it is best that they are only there for the rapport phase until the child is settled.
Notes:
- If a parent insists on being present and the interviewers believe that this may obstruct the interview and thereby the investigation, the police have legal powers to exclude them from the interview.
- Where any form of interpreter is required, this should not be a member of the family.
