How does RJ Work for Offenders?
RJ helps by delivering benefits that the traditional justice process cannot. Whilst this may be part of your sentence plan, and you are encouraged to become involved, it is additionally for and about amending things between you and the person you harmed.
You may want to make things better, but may feel helpless as to what to do. With RJ it is important to remember, a small gesture, such as an apology, the willingness to hear how your actions have impacted another person, and the reassurance that it will never happen again, can make all the difference to a victim.
Many people harmed by crime, often say this is what they want. For may victims, having their questions answered, such as why you chose to harm them, can restore their peace of mind and have a huge impact on both yours and their recovery.
Successful RJ can reduce the likelihood or you repeating your crime in the future.
Research has found that taking part in RJ has prompted offenders to think about changing their behaviour and has been shown to reduce re-offending by 14%
How RJ can help you
Being able to tell your story to the person you have harmed is as important to you as it is to the person who has been harmed. By telling your story, you have an opportunity to explain to the person why you have caused them harm. This allows you to reflect on your understanding of why you behaved in that way.
To hear how it has impacted on the other person. Understanding how your actions have impacted on another person is powerful. By finding the courage that is required to face up to the harm that has been caused, and take responsibility, it can be a transformative experience. You can feel proud of yourself, and this can help you to regain trust and restore respect.
Allows the person you harmed to gain answers to their questions. The victim may have questions that will help them process the harm. By providing answers, you can offer reassurance and closure, allowing the healing process to begin.
To show yourself in a better light. When given the opportunity to stop and think about the harm caused, many people who commit a crime regret their behaviour. RJ allows you an opportunity to separate the deed from yourself as a person. Helping you to realise that your criminal behaviour doesn’t define who you are. You may be able to share with the person you harmed, some of the steps you have taken and your commitment to change.
Contacting Us
If you are a professional working with offenders, you can make a referral into our service here: Staffordshire Harmer and Harmed referral form
You can also self-refer by completing the online referral form: Restorative Justice Self-Referral Form Staffordshire
Or you can give us a call on 0300 373 2558