The Victims’ Code states that victims have a right to be informed about and take part in restorative justice after experiencing a crime. Restorative justice brings together victims harmed by crime, and those responsible for that harm, to find a positive way forward. It gives victims the chance to have their say, to get answers to their questions, and to move on with their lives. It also gives offenders the opportunity to look at their behaviour and the impact it has had on the victim’s life.
How does restorative justice work?
- The offender must accept responsibility for the harm caused.
- The victim and offender must both be willing to participate.
- Restorative justice can only take place if a trained facilitator decides that it would be safe and suitable.
- The facilitator will speak to the victim and offender to discuss what has happened and carefully prepare them for a meeting, often called a conference.
- In the meeting, everyone will get to have their say and can agree actions to address the harm.
- In appropriate cases the victim and offender can invite agreed supporters to come with them.
- In some cases a meeting may not be suitable, but the process may be undertaken by another form of communication.
All victims of crime have a right to request Restorative Justice (RJ) after an offence has been committed against them. RJ gives victims an opportunity to ask questions of the offender, find out why they committed the offence and if they have any remorse. It has been shown to improve the recovery of victims after an offence and also reduces the likelihood of reoffending. It is a voluntary process for both parities which is available whether you are a victim at work or at home.
Remedi currently deliver RJ across Humberside and South Yorkshire, so if you have any questions about the service, or you are a victim of an offence and would like to talk about RJ, you can contact their office directly:
Humberside:
South Yorkshire
rj@remediuk.org.uk or 0114 253 6669
Regardless of the offence type or when it happened, Remedi will be able to support you with your request.
My Support Space
We have a Restorative Justice module on My Support Space, our free online support service. To access My Support Space, set up a free account at www.mysupportspace.org.uk/moj.