UK 2006

August 2006 - Restorative Processes and Outcomes for Victims

Victim participation, satisfaction and perception of fairness are addressed in several research studies. With the government's current agenda focusing on 'rebalancing the justice system in favour of the 'law-abiding majority' and 'putting the needs of victims first', this reserach helps to show that RJ can aid in meeting those outcomes.

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Last updated: 21/08/06

January 2006 - The Positive Effect of Restorative Justice On Re-offending
There have been numerous studies carried out across the globe focusing on the relationship between Restorative Justice and re-offending.

The belief is widely held across the world that RJ, when carried out properly, can have positive effects on re-offending. Once it is established what ‘good practice’ looks like and which programs are using good practice further research should be carried out. Only then will we be able to see all the benefits of a restorative process.

In this report, a summary is presented of each of the studies examined, including key results.

Please note that this is a working document and new studies will be added as they are released. The document was first released in January 2006. The 'Last Updated' field below will indicate when a new version has been uploaded to the site.

Last Updated: 03/04/2006

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NEW! Key Findings (Summary)

April 2006 - Restorative Justice in Northern Ireland

Community Restorative Justice in Northern Ireland - an Overview - Brian Gormally

The Politicisation of Community Restorative Justice in Northern Ireland - Anna Erikson, Queen's University Belfast

February 2006
The Howard League Inquiry headed by Lord Carlile

Regarding Restorative Justice, the report acknowledged that 'when looking at secure institutions for young people with the emphasis on the treatment of those children whilst there, restorative practices can provide some clear benefits for reducing conflicts and the need for punitive solutions for dealing with the aftermath of any conflict'. It was noted that restorative practices used in a 'whole prison approach' might offer one alternative to the use of physical intervention. Circles, Conferences or Mediation and Restorative Conversations were some possible models that were identified to solve this problem. See the recommendations in full

Press Release available from the Howard League for Penal Reform website. Copies of the report are also available for purchase via the site for £15.

January 2006
Smart Justice and Victim Support
Key findings include: 51% of people surveyed believe offenders meeting their victims is an effective option to stop offenders from committing further crime.

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