One thing is that they need to be informed at all parts of the process so that when there are upcoming dates, they have that information in an appropriate amount of time and they're aware of what's required. For example, some victims who have never given a victim statement at a parole hearing.... They have to prepare their statement ahead of time. It has to be submitted ahead of time. Then once it's submitted, they can only read it; they may not deviate from that statement. They may read only what is written at the time of the parole hearing.
There are many issues that have been brought forward to our office from victims in terms of both parole hearings and simple considerations. For example, parole hearings take place in institutions; they're all different. So one thing could be making sure that you consider the victim and put yourself in a victim's perspective. If the offender is to be walked right by the victim on the way to the parole hearing, and in close proximity, put a lens on in terms of considering the impact to the victim.
We've dealt with everything from where the victim is sitting within the room where the hearing is taking place to looking at, if there is a video impact statement being given, where it is and whether the offender can see it or not.
It's to really consider all of the information, the proximity issues, and the respect issues, treating those families and those victims with dignity and respect in terms of that hearing, and making sure that through all stages, they are informed, they are considered. That's going to go a long way toward their feeling safe.
Also, I think the modifications we've recommended here.... Give them those choices and options, because as I said in my testimony, some may very much want to be there in person, and some may not be able to but will still want to participate. For example, one of the simple modifications was that even if they're denied attendance for safety reasons, if they're denied that attendance they should be allowed to follow. They should be allowed to give their statement using the technology, not just follow.