How Do Restorative Justice Referrals Work?

There are a variety of ways that victims and offenders can be referred to Restorative Solutions. It’s important to note that as Restorative Justice is voluntary, both parties have to agree to participate for the process to go ahead.

Self referrals

If you’ve been involved in a crime, as the offender or victim, and would like to participate in Restorative Justice, you can contact Restorative Solutions to find out more about how the process could help you.

It’s important to highlight that for cases of sexual abuse, we only accept victim-led referrals.

External referrals for victims

Victims might be referred to Restorative Solutions by

Victim Support or Victim Liaison Officers
Support agencies - for example, charities that offer counselling or support following a sexual offence
GPs

External referrals for offenders

External referrals for offenders may come from

Police officers
Probation officers
Prison officers

Restorative Solutions offers training and information sessions for support agencies so that teams can understand what Restorative Justice is and identify when it might be beneficial for victims and offenders.

For instance, when a Victim Support volunteer is speaking to a victim who is saying things like "I just have so many questions", or "I just don't understand why this happened", they can explain how Restorative Solutions could be a suitable way to get the answers to these questions.

Likewise with offenders, support agencies can be listening out for things like "I didn't realise", "I wish I could undo it", "I don't feel good about what happened" and introduce the possibility of Restorative Justice as a way to make amends, or apologise to the victim.

If you would like to discuss Restorative Justice, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Start a conversation

We’d love to talk to you about how we can find a solution for you.

or simply call us on 01772 842109

What people say about Restorative Solutions

I'm so glad I am working with Restorative Justice. I don't know who would listen to me if it wasn’t for you.

A Person Harmed by Crime

Restorative Justice is very underrated and I certainly think we should be using it more.

A Professional who Referred Someone into our Service

Very satisfied – it’s been a great service. A worthwhile process for me and I hope for the offenders. Staff have been great and I would like to thank them.

A victim

It was the right thing to do. Both victims told me to let go of what happened. I didn't want to hear it but they both forgave me and said I should move on. I have taken that on and thought about it and I have come to terms with what happened. You've helped me significantly. It's as though my head has been lifted of a gigantic weight.

An Offender

Thanks for your time today. I feel like you understand R so well, I really hope you can help him to learn how to be happy.

Feedback from a family in East Kent

Restorative Justice offers a unique opportunity for victims and survivors to move on from and overcome the trauma that can be left with them after experiencing crime. I am exceedingly proud of the work that the team at Restorative Solutions do in supporting our community. We should always consider the needs of victims of crime and this service exemplifies that sentiment and allows so many to put behind them what can be the worst experience of their lives.

Marc Jones, Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.