Victims and Restorative Approaches

We encourage children to take responsibility for the harm and loss they have caused victims of crime and agree on ways of making amends. This is called a restorative approach. This is done by working with victims and listening to their views on how the child can repair the harm they have caused.

Many victims have found that becoming involved in the justice process helps them to deal with the difficult emotions they may experience after the crime.

How we work with victims

• Communicate their views about the effects the offence has had on them.
• Victims can attend panel meetings which involve the child, a youth justice team worker and volunteers from the community.
• By helping to decide the type of reparation the child will carry out.
• Agreeing for the child to write letters of apology.
• Getting involved in a restorative justice process and/or have direct contact with the child.

How are victims supported if they choose to become involved?

• Being actively listened to and their views taken into account.
• Contact and support from our Victim Officer.
• Being provided with information about the child and their progress in relation to victim work throughout the order.
• Referral to other services where appropriate.