JCPSLP Vol 21 No 1 2019

that the book is easy to read and often humorous. They illustrate their points using numerous examples of real (anonymised) cases, including ending each chapter with an “Intermezzo” – longer case examples written by intermediaries, with intriguing titles such as “Mavis and the disappearing teeth” and “Abeni and the musical judge” – painting a very clear picture for the reader about some of the benefits, and challenges, of an intermediary’s work. They also include feedback from criminal justice professionals throughout to give views from a range of perspectives, for example quoting judges who recognise that working with intermediaries has changed their own practice (increasing their awareness of necessary changes to how cross- examination is managed) and describe intermediaries as “bringing light where there was darkness” (p. 283). The final chapters of the book discuss some of the political, operational, and budgetary challenges of the scheme, including the exclusion of the accused from the current statutory provision, and the need for more formal

supervision and support for intermediaries themselves, as well as reflecting on the enormous contribution that intermediaries have made to increasing access to justice in what is a typically traditional context. This book is invaluable for anyone who is interested in the role of intermediaries and the Witness Intermediary Scheme in England and Wales, whether as someone working as, or interested in becoming, an intermediary in another jurisdiction, or as a legal professional, or as someone interested in the process of change in the justice system. As a former intermediary in England myself, people often ask me about the Witness Intermediary Scheme, and I now direct them to this book. Since its publication, I have recommended it to numerous people, and without exception everyone has commented on how accessible, enjoyable, and informative it is, with most (if not all!) then recommending it to their colleagues. So go on, if you have any interest at all in the justice system, treat yourself to a great read, and learn (and laugh) a lot along the way.

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JCPSLP Volume 21, Number 1 2019

Journal of Clinical Practice in Speech-Language Pathology