Restorative Approaches and Restorative Justice Conferencing

Lynne Russell – DirectorRestorative Justice 4 Schools

Restorative Approaches are inspired by the philosophy and practices of Restorative

Justice which aims to repair harm caused to relationships and communities by conflict.

Crucially it is believed that is best achieved by focusing upon the harm

caused, rather than assigning blame and dispensing punishment which often fails to address the needs of those most affected.

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Restorative Justice focuses the individual on their

responsibilities to the rights of others

Restorative Approaches are a framework of methods that contribute towards the building, maintaining and repairing a community

Informal Formal

Informal Formal

Happier and safer school Mutually respectful

relationships More effective teaching

and learning Reducing exclusions Raising attendance Developing emotional

literacy Addressing bullying

behaviours Raising morale by culture

of inclusion and belonging Reduces entry into CJS

IT IS NOT A SOFT OPTION

Lynne Russell - Restorative Justice 4 Schools

Endeavour High school in Hull: From Spring 2007 – July 2008

45.6% reduction in incidents of verbal abuse 59.4% reduction in incidents of physical abuse 43.2% reduction in incidents of disruptive

behaviour 78.6% reduction in incidents of racist incidents 100% reduction in incidents of drug use 50% reduction in incidents of theft 44.5% reduction in fixed term exclusions 62.5% reduction in total days of staff absence *

* a saving of over £60,000 in the first 8 months!!

A process for resolving conflict A common language to resolve conflict Focuses on the needs of the victim Allows the wrongdoer(s) to understand

the impact of their actions Encourages wrongdoer(s) to take

responsibility for their actions Therefore creates accountability Likely to change behaviour and build

character

RJ is not an opt out of punishment Conferencing can take place along side punitive

measures if the sanction is seen as unavoidable or constructive

Conferencing can take place and effective engagement would cause punitive response to become suspended.

Conferencing can produce a nominated sanctions, reparation or financial restitution

Young people can be asked to give an apology of actions not just words

THAT SAID It is considered more effective when made part of a

no blame approach

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Change of behaviour Avoids exclusions Genuine apology and acknowledgement of

harm Conflict stops Friendships/relationships can be repaired Lessons are learnt Everyone has a say Promotes truth telling YP take responsibility for their behaviour Strategy for a better future Not criminalised and able to stay in

education

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[email protected]

www.restorativejustice4schools.co.uk

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