“For children, we really have to give a detailed explanation of how the process works, who will be there to support them, and so on. Even though we try to make them understand where they have to go, many of the kids in the waiting area are puzzled and don’t know what is happening. They stand in corridors and sometimes have to witness arguments in the courtroom. We need more awareness of Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres and other facilities to help make them feel comfortable…”

In Episode 6 of JALDI’s new video series, ‘Designing Justice’, Arushi Anthwal and Jova Rachel from Counsel to Secure Justice draw on their experience working as advocates and support persons for children in courts. They reflect on how children currently experience court infrastructure and the ways in which it shapes their ability to feel supported while navigating the system. They also explore how trauma-informed design can help build rapport with children and move the system toward more meaningful justice.