Restorative justice
Restorative justice gives victims the chance to tell the offender how their criminal behaviour has affected them
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Restorative justice (RJ) is a relatively new approach to trying to deal with the harm done by crime and other conflicts. It tries to make things good again (restored) for the victim and the community and to help the offender to fit back into society. Research shows that many victims find it very helpful and we'd like to see it offered to many more victims of crime.
RJ gives you, the victim, a chance to ask the offender questions or tell them how their criminal behaviour has affected you. It gives the offender a chance to:
- admit what they have done and the impact it's had on you and other people
- make up for it in some way and
- work to change their behaviour.
This can be done face-to-face with the offender, with an official mediator or facilitator present, or indirectly through a mediator.
Since 1998 a range of new measures for dealing with young offenders has been introduced. Some of these measures include some of the principles of restorative justice. You may be asked about the possibility of mediation, attending a restorative conference or Youth Offender Panel meeting, or asked about reparation. It is totally up to you whether or not you take part though.
Download a copy of our policy position statement on restorative justice below.
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