Psychology experts to give evidence on juror wellbeing

The House of Lords Justice and Home Affairs Committee will tomorrow be holding its first evidence session for its new inquiry into support for jurors. 

The session will be with psychology academics specialising in juror wellbeing, trauma, and resilience.  

Giving evidence will be: 

• Dr Hannah Fawcett, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University  

• Dr Matt Brooks, Senior Lecturer in Forensic Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University 

Questions the committee is likely to ask include: 

• How does jury service affect people and what aspects of being a juror most affect them?  

• What mitigations are put in place for those who may be or are affected by jury service 

• What support is available for jurors? How frequently is this support taken up?  

• What information is provided to jurors before, during, and after their service?  

• How do rules around discussing details of trials affect both the impact on jurors and the support available to them?  

• Where does responsibility lie for ensuring the wellbeing of jurors? Is it at the individual or state level? Where should it sit?  

• What lessons can be learned from other common law jurisdictions? 

• What recommendations should the committee make to the Government regarding support for jurors? 

The session will take place on Wednesday 2 September at 10:30am and can be followed live on Parliament TV.