Undertaking Effective Investigations A Guide for National Human Rights Institutions Keep it brief The interview should focus only on those areas that have to be covered. As far as possible, avoid having to re-interview the child later. If a second interview is necessary, it should cover only new areas or essential clarification. This applies equally to all interviewees. Do not go over the whole event or issue again. Get help if needed There are various interview techniques and strategies that can be used both to gather information and to avoid – or, at least, minimize – harm. They include play as an interview technique. Unless the interviewer is experienced in this approach, they should seek expert assistance from someone with experience in conducting interviews with children. As a general rule, more help will be needed when interviewing younger children. Be very careful about making suggestions or leading child witnesses Children can be very susceptible to suggestion and eager to please. Be very careful about asking leading questions. KEY POINTS: CHAPTER 10 • When preparing to interview a witness, investigators should identify if there are any special circumstances that might apply. If so, it should consider whether the interview should be conducted at all and, if it is, what special arrangements will be necessary. • Factors where special arrangements may be necessary include the physical or mental fitness of the witness; gender considerations; cultural or religious issues; witnesses who may be at risk or vulnerable; and those who do not speak the investigator’s language. • Particular care needs to be taken when interviewing children and other vulnerable people. 66