The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service works with people who have been involved in conflict, including criminal offences. Restorative processes use communication between people who have been harmed, and have caused harm, to allow them to work towards positive outcomes in a safe environment.
Our service is impartial and will work to achieve a positive way forward for everyone involved. As well as being very experienced with working with criminal behaviour, we also work with anti-social behaviour and even arrange meetings involving entire communities where issues are affecting them.
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What does Restorative Justice and Mediation look like?
Trained facilitators will visit everyone involved and talk to them about the impact of what is happening, or has happened. They will ensure that a restorative or mediation approach is appropriate and safe, and will work with those involved to find a suitable way forward. This is often a face-to-face meeting, but there are alternative solutions should they be deemed more appropriate.
What is Restorative Justice?
Restorative Justice: Working to find solutions
Referral
Referrals are submitted via agencies with one or more party, or individuals can also self-refer.
Consent
Consent is sought wherever possible, prior to a referral being submitted.
Risk Assessment
An initial risk assessment is conducted before the case is allocated to a volunteer facilitator.
Faciliation
Facilitators meet with each party to explain the Restorative Justice process and to seek agreement to participate. A secondary risk assessment is also undertaken.
Communication
An appropriate way forward (direct or indirect communication) is decided and agreed by parties and communication is facilitated.
