A new therapy dog named Sebastian is helping to make the court experience less intimidating for children and young people.

The two-year-old St Bernard x Bernese Mountain Dog works with the NSPCC Young Witness Service to support young people who are preparing to attend court.

Justice Minister Naomi Long met with Sebastian and his owner, Megan, on Friday, 5 September 2025 to hear more about the service firsthand.

The Minister said it was a "particular treat" to meet Sebastian, who is making a "tangible difference" to the lives of children and young people as they engage with the criminal justice system. She added that attending court, even just to watch proceedings, can be daunting for adults, so the courage it takes for a child to give evidence should not be underestimated. When a young witness requests Sebastian's support, he spends time with them in the court buildings. The service itself, which is funded by the Department of Justice, is available to young prosecution witnesses under the age of 18, and their parents or carers. It is an invaluable tool in providing support and reassurance, helping children provide their best evidence to the court.

The service is available for all crown, magistrate, and youth courts across Northern Ireland. Young witnesses are also entitled to give evidence remotely, either from a special room in court or from a remote evidence centre.

Jenni Boyce, Partnership Service Manager at the NSPCC's Young Witness Service, said they were delighted to show the Minister how Sebastian supports young witnesses while they wait to give their evidence. She added that Sebastian will be working alongside the charity's staff and volunteers to ensure children feel "safe, listened to and supported whilst navigating their way through the criminal justice system."