Restorative justice
Restorative Justice gives victims the chance to tell
offenders how their crimes have affected them, to get answers to
their questions and to receive an apology. It gives the offenders
the chance to understand the effect of what they have done and to
do something to repair the harm.
Research shows that Restorative Justice is wanted by about half
of victims and helps victims who choose to take part by reducing
stress and the desire for revenge. It also helps offenders and
reduces the likelihood of re-offending. Recent research also shows
that the benefits of reparation can be greatest in cases where the
greatest harm has been done.
In Kent around 900 victims of crime per year are offered an
opportunity to take part in a restorative justice process. Surveys
have shown that a very high proportion of them are satisfied with
the service we provided.
You can find out more about Restorative Justice at the Restorative Justice
Consortium website.