Covers Dorset Council and BCP Council areas.

Restorative Justice (RJ) processes bring those harmed by crime and those responsible for the harm into communication with each other, enabling everyone affected by a particular incident to play a part in repairing the harm and finding a positive way forward.

RJ offers victims an opportunity to be heard and to have their say in the resolution of harm caused, including agreeing restorative or reparative activity on the part of the offender.

RJ has a proven, significant impact in supporting victims in achieving closure and allowing them to move on with their lives. 85% of victims who have participated in Restorative Justice would recommend it to others.

For offenders, RJ provides an opportunity to face the consequences of their actions, recognising the impact that their offending behaviour has had upon others and, where possible, make amends.

Who it is for

Referrals for restorative justice involving incidents of domestic abuse are only considered if they are victim initiated.

There must be an identifiable victim, an identified harmer or charged offender, and an admission of responsibility or a guilty plea/finding of guilt if the case is proceeding through the courts system.

No offence is excluded but all cases are subject to a multi-agency risk assessment as to suitability for a RJ intervention.

The service is free of charge, voluntary and impartial. If a victim or offender is being supported by a CJS agency or partner, we will update that organisation about the outcomes of RJ activities and involve them in any suitable assessment where parties consent to engage and share information.

How to refer

If you would like to find out more, to arrange a briefing or awareness raising session for your organisation, or to make a referral please contact the RJ team today.

• Telephone: 07535 692669/ 07535 692584
• Email: RJDorset@restorativesolutions.org.uk
• Secure email: RJDorset@restorativesolutions.org.uk.cjsm.net

Visit the Restorative Justice website.