The 40 volunteers, who have given up their time to help run Bradford’s restorative justice programme, are being recognised in a special event next week.
The event, on Wednesday (21 September) at City Hall is being hosted by Bradford Safer and Stronger Communities Partnership (made up of the council, police and voluntary sector organisations) in partnership with Restorative Solutions.
Restorative Justice enables victims and offenders, or those in conflict to communicate through a volunteer facilitator either directly or indirectly. The people affected are given the opportunity to ask questions of the person that has caused the harm and also explain the impact that this harm has caused.
People affected by crime or conflict take part in a restorative process for many different reasons. They might have questions, or may want to better understand something that has happened.
Many people who have engaged in restorative justice found it very positive and an empowering experience.
There are currently 40 volunteers who give up their time to volunteer in their own communities. The commitment, passion and dedication of these volunteers has led Bradford RJ Hub to be nationally recognised.
Cllr Abdul Jabar, Chair of the Bradford Safer and Stronger Community Partnership, said: “This is a celebration event to recognise and value the work of the Restorative Justice (RJ) volunteers. The RJ volunteers drive this area of work and they contribute towards the success of the project and make significant differences to the communities which make up Bradford District.”
In March 2015, the RJ Hub received the Restorative Service Quality Mark which demonstrates that services are delivered to a high standard and adheres to Best Practice Guidance.
The RJ Hub continues to look for new opportunities to innovate and respond to local needs. For example looking at restorative approaches to deal new and emerging issues for the district such as sexual harassment and Child Sexual Exploitation.
Anyone who has been a victim of crime and would be interested in finding our more about the restorative justice process please contact the RJ Hub.