There are many reasons to participate in Restorative Justice. You can seek advice from Victim Support, Police and Restorative Justice providers. It is very important to note, that safety and voluntary participation are at the centre of this process, and an assessment will be conducted to ensure that it is appropriate to conduct a Restorative Justice Conference in every case.
Positive outcomes
By participating in restorative justice, you have the chance to:
tell the offender how you've been affected by the crime
say how the harm can be put right
start dealing with the crime.
There are significant positive impacts that have been found in studies, that come from participating in the restorative justice process. Reducing effects of distress, anxiety, Post traumatic Stress Symptoms, amongst others*.
Talk to the experts by connecting with restorative justice providers
We encourage you to contact the restorative justice provider at the court dealing with the case, for a confidential discussion. Providers are very aware of making sure that a case is appropriate for the process, and they are best placed with the most experience in helping you understand if it is the right thing for you.
Talk to your court services victim advisor
Court Services for Victims is a free and confidential service to help you take part in the court process. It is available from the defendant’s first day in court, until sentencing and through any appeals.
Services are delivered by victim advisors, who are specialists in delivering services to victims of crime. Usually the same victim advisor will be assigned throughout the whole case. Your victim advisor can help you by:
• advising you about your rights under the Victims’ Rights Act 2002
• providing information about your case
• helping you take part in the court process.
It’s not a counselling service; emotional support is available to you from other organisations. To find out more, phone Victims Information on 0800 650 654 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) or visit victimsinfo.govt.nz
Talk to your victim support advisor
(this is a different service to the one above)
It's a good idea to talk to victim support about restorative justice early in the process. Sometimes people are not sure how to do this. We recommend contacting them through their website, email [email protected] or by phoning 0800 842 846
*There are many studies supporting this. You can find more about one particular study.
