Restorative Justice Dorset
Restorative Justice Dorset supports victims and offenders across Dorset, Dorset Council and BCP Council areas.
Referrals from or on behalf of offenders responsible for domestic abuse or sexual harm are not accepted. Referrals must be victim initiated for domestic abuse or sexual harm.
Restorative Justice (RJ) is a voluntary process that can bring people impacted by crime, for example the harmed and the harmer, into direct or indirect communication with the aim of repairing some of the harm caused and helping participants to focus on the future.
It can be an opportunity to hold the harmer to account by communicating the impact of the offending behaviours, getting answers, making and receiving apologies and agreeing future behaviours.
The service is free, voluntary and impartial.
Who it is for
RJ Dorset will accept referrals initiated by victims of domestic abuse living in Dorset.
A referral is progressed after the criminal justice outcome has been delivered.
All referrals are subject to initial and ongoing suitability and risk assessment to ensure that RJ is a safe and appropriate intervention for all participants. This will usually include a multi-agency risk assessment.
If a victim or offender is being supported by a Criminal Justice System (CJS) agency or partner, RJ Dorset can, with the consent of the participant, share relevant information for risk assessment, suitability and participant support.
How to refer
Partner agencies require the consent of the potential participant to make a referral.
Victims may self-refer.
You can find out more on the RJ Dorset website.
To discuss a possible referral, make a general enquiry or request a briefing/presentation for your team please contact us by: