Restorative Approaches and Restorative Justice Conferencing Lynne Russell

Restorative Approaches and Restorative Justice Conferencing Lynne Russell – Director Restorative Justice 4 Schools

Restorative Approaches are inspired by the philosophy and practices of Restorative Justice which aims to repair harm caused to relationships and communities by conflict. Crucially it is believed that is best achieved by focusing upon the harm caused, rather than assigning blame and dispensing punishment which often fails to address the needs of those most affected.

The 4 R’s RJ is based on four key features RESPECT RESPONSIBILTY REPAIR Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd REINTEGRATION 3

Responsibilities and Rights Restorative Justice focuses the individual on their responsibilities to the rights of others

Range of Restorative Approaches are a framework of methods that contribute towards the building, maintaining and repairing a community Informal Formal

Informal Formal Everyday Behaviour – Everyday Conflict – Restorative rules Reflection time Building Skills Restorative language Behaviour Issues Non prepared restorative chat or enquiry High Level Conflict – Alternative to Exclusion Formal prepared conference Check in and out Classroom conference Aims for the day Circle time Restorative sanctions Informal prepared conference

Restorative Justice Conferencing is a process that repairs relationships Restorative Approaches develop skills to build and maintain relationships

What can RJ do for a School? Happier and safer school Mutually respectful relationships More effective teaching and learning Reducing exclusions Raising attendance Developing emotional literacy Addressing bullying behaviours Raising morale by culture of inclusion and belonging Reduces entry into CJS IT IS NOT A SOFT OPTION

Why consider Restorative Approaches? Endeavour High school in Hull: From Spring 2007 – July 2008 45. 6% 59. 4% 43. 2% 78. 6% 100% 50% 44. 5% 62. 5% reduction reduction in in incidents of verbal abuse incidents of physical abuse incidents of disruptive behaviour incidents of racist incidents of drug use incidents of theft fixed term exclusions total days of staff absence * * a saving of over £ 60, 000 in the first 8 months!! Lynne Russell - Restorative Justice 4 Schools

What is Restorative Justice Conferencing ? A process for resolving conflict A common language to resolve conflict Focuses on the needs of the victim Allows the wrongdoer(s) to understand the impact of their actions Encourages wrongdoer(s) to take responsibility for their actions Therefore creates accountability Likely to change behaviour and build character

Conference Process Incident Preparation Conference Reintegration and refreshments Follow Up

RJ V Punishment RJ is not an opt out of punishment Conferencing can take place along side punitive measures if the sanction is seen as unavoidable or constructive Conferencing can take place and effective engagement would cause punitive response to become suspended. Conferencing can produce a nominated sanctions, reparation or financial restitution Young people can be asked to give an apology of actions not just words THAT SAID It is considered more effective when made part of a no blame approach Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd 12

Positive Outcome from Conferencing Change of behaviour Avoids exclusions Genuine apology and acknowledgement of harm Conflict stops Friendships/relationships can be repaired Lessons are learnt Everyone has a say Promotes truth telling YP take responsibility for their behaviour Strategy for a better future Not criminalised and able to stay in education

Implementation: The First Step Staff & Pupils using informal Restorative Approaches Restorative language, contracts, class room rules Administration Policy, referral system Check in and check out in form /tutor time Rest. chats to resolve low level conflict Training Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd RJ Conferencing to resolve high level conflict Resources, Info. for Parents, Staff, Pupils 14

Training Whole school training 3 Day conferencing facilitation training Peer mentoring/facilitation training Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd 15

Contact Details enquiry@restorativejustice 4 schools. co. uk www. restorativejustice 4 schools. co. uk Restorative Justice 4 Schools – Facebook 07773 797 587