EFRJ - From Survivors to Survivors: Conversations on Restorative Justice in Cases of Sexual Violence

European Forum for Restorative Justice (EFRJ) has published ‘From Survivors to Survivors: Conversations on Restorative Justice in Cases of Sexual Violence’.

The publication shows why it is so important to do Restorative Justice in cases of sexual violence and be innovative. There are eight stories - two of which were facilitated by Restorative Solutions.

You can read the EFRJ publication here. 

The below excerpts are taken from the publication:

Why this collection of conversations? 

“There is a significant body of research about restorative justice and sexual harm and those in academia and in practice can access this information. However, we (editors) identified that there was a gap in resources that spoke to survivors of sexual harm about restorative justice directly. There is a lot of material talking “about” victims / survivors, but nothing that speaks directly from and to victims / survivors of sexual harm.”

“The aim of this publication is to give a voice to victims / survivors of sexual harm who have taken part in restorative justice and let them speak about the experience in their own words. As far as we know, this will be the first resource of its kind. We hope that this publication may act as a form of “peer support” to other victims / survivors who are considering engaging in a restorative justice process. This will give them an opportunity to read about others’ experiences, to gain a better understanding of restorative justice and to decide whether it might be right for them and / or something to consider (or not).”

“For these reasons, we thought that a conversational format was the most appropriate to capture the testimonies. We also believe that this publication will serve to gain an understanding of the variety of restorative justice practices across Europe and to examine different ways of practising it. Thus, it will be helpful to restorative justice practitioners and policymakers, as it will give an insight into good practice 14 151.3 How to read these conversations? and different ways of approaching restorative justice in different jurisdictions and with different methodologies.”

DISCLAIMER:

“Reading these testimonies may not be an easy journey for our readers. The lived experiences of the victims / survivors interviewed often include complex stories of harm and violence, and also of resilience and empowerment. We advise readers to take care of themselves and, if these stories result in some personal triggers, to rely on the help of their networks and / or local professionals. In the resource kit (p. 51) you will find some contact details.”

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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.

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A Creeper Burglary: Restorative Justice Case Study

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A Non-Recent Child Sexual Abuse: Restorative Justice Case Study

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A Robbery: Restorative Justice Case Study

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