Language barriers in Restorative Justice meetings
Where necessary, we use an external translator service to help victims and offenders communicate....
How much does it cost to participate in Restorative Justice?
It’s free to take part in Restorative Justice with Restorative Solutions.
How do Restorative Justice referrals work?
Both victims and offenders can self refer if they are interested in pursuing Restorative Justice. Victim referrals can also come from Victim Support or Victim Liaison Officers, support agencies and GPs. Offender referrals can come from police, probation, or prison officers.
Are Restorative Justice conferences mediated?
Absolutely. All Restorative Justice conferences are mediated by trained professionals, known as Restorative Justice Facilitators. Other organisations or individuals involved to best assess risk may also be present throughout the process.
What happens if I don’t want to take part in Restorative Justice anymore?
Restorative Justice is a completely voluntary process. You can change your mind at any time, either by opting out or opting in.
What are the benefits of Restorative Justice for victims of crime?
It can reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD after a crime takes place
It empowers victims and gives them a chance to have their voice heard, taking back control
It allows them the opportunity to ask any questions they might have about the crime, e.g ‘why me?’, ‘did you target me specifically?’
It helps the victim put the crime behind them
What are the benefits of Restorative Justice for offenders?
It helps the offender put the crime behind them
It helps offenders to see the impact of their actions
It allows offenders the opportunity to apologise and explain
It gives them the opportunity to make amends where possible
It reduces reoffending rates by 14%
Are certain crimes off limits for Restorative Justice?
No. Restorative Justice can be used for any type of crime as long as both parties (the victim and offender) agree to take part.
Does Restorative Justice mean offenders get a lighter sentence?
Restorative Justice happens after an offender has been sentenced. That means that it doesn’t have an impact on the sentence an offender receives.
Does Restorative Justice always happen face-to-face?
Restorative Justice can be done both directly and indirectly. Direct Restorative Justice involves a face-to-face conference. Indirect Restorative Justice can be facilitated through phone calls, video calls, letter writing, emails, or passing on messages through a third party.
Does Restorative Justice have to involve forgiveness?
Restorative Justice can sometimes include forgiveness. But it doesn’t have to and it’s not expected to.
Does the victim/offender have to agree to take part for Restorative Justice to go ahead?
Yes. Restorative Justice is voluntary for both parties.
