Restorative justice

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

For more information visit the Restorative Justice Council.