Language barriers in Restorative Justice meetings

Posted on: 19th, April 2024

We offer Restorative Justice following any crime where there is an identifiable victim and offender, so it’s important that language barriers between parties don’t impact anyone’s ability to access our service. 

Where necessary, we use an external translator service to help victims and offenders communicate. It’s essential that this intermediary translates participants’ words verbatim, as nuance can be lost if questions, answers or explanations are paraphrased or condensed. Using translators means that participants who would not otherwise have the chance to experience the benefits of Restorative Justice - it can help both offender and victim gain closure and move on from a crime, provides the offender with the chance to apologise, explain and make amends, and can alleviate mental health issues resulting from the crime  - have the opportunity to do so.

If you think Restorative Justice is right for you, please contact us

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What People Say About Restorative Justice

The facilitators have been wonderful. I feel stronger than I did. I would really recommend Restorative Justice.

Burglary Victim

Thank you for the letter, it has made a real difference to how I feel about what happened

From victim of a criminal damage to vehicle where the offender wanted to write a letter which explained what he had been feeling at the time and how sorry he was now.

Thank you for the letter, it has made a difference to how I feel.

Georgia, Victim of Crime

Thank you for the update, I felt reassured that the offender has apologised and that her behaviour was subject to some reflection and accountability.

Linda, Victim of Crime

He's done what he has been asked to do (apologise for the harm caused) - I'm very happy with that.

Kieran, Victim of Crime

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