Essex Police taking part in Restorative Justice week

Essex Police are highlighting their Restorative and Mediation Service as part of Restorative Justice Week.

The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service works with people who have been involved in conflict, including criminal offences.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “This week, we’re highlighting the restorative justice services available to Essex residents.

“Restorative Justice can be effective in showing the responsible person the real impact of their actions by putting a face to their crime. It also gives the victim and their families the chance to tell the offender how they feel about what has happened, ask for an apology and get answers to their questions.

“It can be used alongside the criminal justice system and can be really powerful for both victims and perpetrators.”

Nikki Essex, Restorative and Mediation Service Manager said: “This week is a national opportunity to reflect on the progress made in restorative justice in the last year and to look forward to what’s coming up.

“Restorative justice is a process which brings offenders and victims into some form of communication, allowing victims to ask question, discuss the impact of the crime and get some form of closure. It also allows offenders to understand the harm that’s been caused and make amends, which has been proven to reduce re-offending.

“Despite lock down the service has been busy, managing 223 referrals since January, of which 48 have resulted in a final positive outcome so far.

“One of the focuses for the week is domestic abuse and this is a great opportunity to tie in RJ and domestic abuse and how beneficial it can be to give victims a voice. We know from our colleagues that nationally since lockdown, RJ cases for DA have increased by 150% across the UK.”