Is there a cost to the service?

There is no cost, the service is free and confidential

If I have been a victim of crime do I have to report that crime to the police?

You are not legally bound to report your crime to the police however, investigating crimes, catching criminals and protecting the community is the police's main job, but they also help victims and witnesses of crime. Even if you do not report a crime as the victim, someone who saw what happened might do, so it's likely that you will have to talk to police after a crime.

I don't want to report this to police, can I still get support?

Yes, you can still receive our support

Do you tell the police everything we discuss?

We promise that all information you provide to us ‐ verbally or in writing ‐ will be kept confidential within the Victim Care and Advice Service. This information will not be shared externally unless you expressly instruct us to do so or unless we are required to under law. We will take our time to establish the best way to communicate with you; for example, which email address, phone number or other contact method you want us to use. We will take any other steps that you need us to take to protect your privacy.

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

Restorative justice brings those harmed by crime or conflict and those responsible for the harm into communication, enabling everyone affected to play a part in repairing the harm and finding a positive way forward.

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

WHAT IS RESTORATIVE JUSTICE?

Restorative Justice acknowledges and seeks to reduce the harmful impact of crime by allowing communication between all parties. Restorative Justice gives a voice to victims and provides opportunities for them to ask questions and discuss how reparation could be made by the offender.

While offenders should be willing to acknowledge the impact of their actions and take accountability for the harm done, the entire process is voluntary and victim-led.

Research indicates that Restorative Justice can reduce reoffending and help victims achieve closure. Government research shows that 85% of victims who take part find the process helpful and RJ reduces reoffending by 14%.

Two men in a law office, one writing notes and the other with folded hands, with a gavel and law book on table.

THE PROCESS

HOW IT WORKS

Below is a detailed overview of how the Restorative Justice process works, step by step.

CRIME OCCURS

VCAMS are here to help you cope, recover and thrive. Restorative Justice can be included as part of your unique recovery process at any point during the criminal justice process.

SELF-REFER OR BE REFERRED

You can speak to us at any time to say you're interested in the process. Alternatively, with your consent, a police officer or partner organisation may refer you.

OFFENDER ADMITS CRIME

For this process to take place, the offender must have admitted to committing the crime and both the victim and offender must be willing to participate.

FACILITATOR MEETS VICTIM

Once your referral is received, a facilitator will gather as much information as possible and meet with you to discuss your needs and begin preparing you for the process.

FACILITATOR MEETS OFFENDER

Once confident you understand the process and it is safe to progress, facilitators will also meet the other party to assess their willingness and suitability.

COMMUNICATION BETWEEN PARTIES

If both parties agree and all safeguarding conditions are met, communication can take place via letter, indirect communication or face to face with a facilitator in a safe, controlled environment.

Want To Know More?

Get in touch with our team to find out how we can help you.

FAQs

Please browse our FAQs below, and get in touch if you have any further questions.