Restorative Justice

Restorative justice gives the opportunity for people harmed by a crime and the people responsible for the harm to share how the crime has affected them. It lets everyone involved play a part in repairing the harm and finding a positive way forward.

The communication can be a face-to-face meeting, a letter, recorded audio interview or video.

All victims of crime can seek restorative justice but the process will only take place if both victim and offender want it to.

Restorative justice is completely voluntary for all those taking part. Trained facilitators assess risks and make sure that the process is safe for everybody involved.

Restorative justice can be used for any type of crime and at any stage of the criminal justice process, including if the offender is serving a prison sentence.

Benefits for victims

Restorative justice gives victims a voice and allows them to be heard. They do not often get the opportunity to ask questions to the offender, despite being the most affected by the crime.

Following the process, a victim can feel empowered rather than powerless; it 'gives back' what was taken from them. This can provide closure and help them to understand and stop blaming themselves for what happened to them.

Research shows victims who go through the restorative justice process are less likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a crime.

Benefits for offenders

Engaging in restorative justice does not influence the length of an offender's sentence, parole or early release.

However, it does provide them with the opportunity to repair the harm they have caused and make amends. It takes courage to take responsibility and listen to their victim, putting themselves in their position. 

This process gives an incentive for criminals to change, to be re-labelled. It can inspire them to change and has the potential to stop the 'revolving door' of prisons and reduce  re-offending.

The Norfolk and Suffolk Service is provided by Norfolk Constabulary.

You can find out more by emailing them at: RJHubNC@norfolk.police.uk

 

Read the information leaflet about Restorative Justice

 

More information

You can find more information by:

Visiting the website for the national charity Why Me?
Visiting the Restorative Justice Council