Appeal from our Head of Service

Hear from Charlotte Rook, our Head of Service, on what 25 years of standing beside people facing court really means and why your support matters now more than ever.

For many people, walking into court is one of the most frightening moments of their lives. As Head of Services at Support Through Court, I see every day how close to breaking point many people are when they come through our doors. 

They may be unwell, caring for children, escaping abuse, or completely overwhelmed by a system they don’t understand. At Support Through Court, we exist so that no one has to face that moment alone. 

I want to share a story I witnessed myself when visiting our Birmingham office as it perfectly captures why our work matters. 

Late one afternoon, just as one of our offices was closing, a woman arrived with her children. She was visibly distressed. She had received a letter about a court hearing scheduled for the very next day involving her abusive ex partner. 

Lyndsey* was living in a refuge, had no childcare, and was terrified of attending court. She told our team she was planning not to turn up at all. 

Our volunteers gently explained that if she didn’t attend, a decision could be made in her absence, potentially putting her and her children at even greater risk. They reassured her that she wouldn’t be alone.

In a very short space of time, the team put practical support in place: they arranged special measures, identified a safe exit route, alerted court security, and made sure a volunteer would be there to support her throughout the hearing the next day. They also prepared detailed notes for the volunteer so they could quickly understand her situation and provide the right support. 

Lyndsey was able to attend her hearing and by heard by the judge. Because someone was there. Because the door was still open. Because support was available at the moment she needed it most.

Often, our work isn’t about dramatic interventions. It’s about being there when someone feels they can’t cope. Helping them understand their options. Making sure a frightened person knows they don’t have to disappear from the system to survive it. 

Sometimes our volunteers feel they’ve “only done something small”. But to someone facing court in fear, that small thing can change everything. As we mark our 25th anniversary year, we’re reflecting on thousands of moments like this; moments where someone was seen, supported, and treated with dignity. A gift of £25 today could help ensure that someone facing court tomorrow doesn’t have to do it alone. 

If you’re able to donate, your support will help us continue providing free, in person support to people at their most vulnerable. 

Thank you for standing with us, and with the people who need us most. 

*Not her real name