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.