CRC Court Support Volunteer - Blacktown - # 204964

CRC's Court Support Scheme operates in local courts across the Sydney metropolitan area, Central Coast, Newcastle, and Wollongong. It has been running for 25 years, and many of our volunteers have been with us for a decade or more. The scheme is funded by Legal Aid NSW and is made available to all defendants, witnesses, victims of crime, and their friends and families attending court.

Our court support volunteers are committed to improving access to justice for all people attending court. We offer a friendly and compassionate service to all court users, helping them find their way around court, providing information about court protocols, helping source legal assistance, connecting them with relevant services, or offering emotional support.

You do not need to be a lawyer or have any experience in working in the criminal legal system. You will be provided with training and on-site mentoring. This role suits people able to make a long-term commitment of 1-2 mornings a week.

We currently have vacancies at the following courts: Blacktown, Gosford, Mt Druitt, Newcastle, Parramatta, Penrith, Sutherland, Wollongong and Wyong.

• You will work to improve access to justice and provide a friendly, non-judgemental, confidential service to all court users.
• Help court users find their way around court and provide information about court protocols.
• Help source legal assistance and connect individuals with relevant services.
• Offer emotional support while maintaining the safety, dignity, and confidentiality of all court users.
• Collaborate with other volunteers, court registrars, and service providers at court.
• Provide information and support appropriate to your role and experience; you will not provide legal advice.

• Work in culturally appropriate ways, recognizing the unique cultural needs and over-representation of First Nations people in the criminal justice system.
• Provide non-judgemental support that preserves confidentiality and dignity.
• Collaborate with others within the court environment and external services.
• Demonstrate initiative and responsibility in your role.

Be part of the state's leading agency that supports people as they transition out of prison. CRC NSW is committed to breaking entrenched cycles of disadvantage, offending, and imprisonment. You will receive support from fellow volunteers, often forming long-lasting connections.

• Administration & Office Management
• Companionship & Social Support
• Education & Training
• Mediation & Advocacy

Regular - more than 6 months

Training and on-site mentorship provided