POLICE in West Yorkshire now have several special interview suites to make life less traumatic for vulnerable witnesses.

There are 13 video interview suites in the county, which have cost almost £800,000 to set up.

Half the money has come from the Government.

The suites are designed to be used by vulnerable witnesses, such as rape victims or children.

The suites are furnished comfortably and have video cameras to record the evidence.

Chief Insp Nick Bartrum, of criminal justice support, said: "We are committed to improving services for victims and witnesses, in particular those we consider to be vulnerable.

"The aim of these suites is essentially to provide a positive experience that people can share with others and encourage more members of the community to come forward and report crime."

Chief Insp Bartrum added: "The evidence that victims and witnesses contribute is fundamental in securing convictions and it is important they feel as comfortable and confident as they can."

Project manager Sue Widdowson said: "We are initially providing improved video, interview and medical examination facilities, to help victims and witnesses feel more relaxed and comfortable.

"The issue of how we treat vulnerable victims, particularly rape and sexual assault victims, is being looked at to help us provide a better service for them.

"It is also important that counselling and pre-trial support is offered, to enable victims and witnesses to give their best evidence in court.

"This approach involves the NHS, social services and the Crown Prosecution Service."