Why Restorative Justice? - Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

WHAT CHOICES ARE THERE?
I filmed a mediation dealing with the damage a young boy had caused to a
garage owner’s precious motorbike. The victim was furious, and initially
refused to meet the boy and his family. But the mediator helped the victim
to tell the lad how much the bike meant to him, and how angry he was.
The boy’s father was also ashamed and angry. The boy was dismayed that
a prank he had done as a dare had caused such distress. The victim was
moved to accept his apology. After the session, he gave the lad a ride on the
back of his bike, and promised to teach him motor mechanics.
Reparation to the community
This is a symbolic repayment to the wider community. It is often
requested by victims who want nothing for themselves. It was also
established through Community Service Orders, which courts
have been imposing for many years. Such work can but does not
need to be related to the crime.
In South London, convicted burglars have used their knowledge to put
locks on the flats of elderly people. Others have worked in old people’s
homes or with children who have learning disabilities.
For some young people, this reparation may be the first time they
have been valued by outsiders, and their first contribution to the
community. If young offenders feel motivated and satisfied at
doing something positive, they may in time be able to give up the
prestige and excitement of crime.
Stewart was a persistent young offender I knew from his Intensive
Probation Order at Sherborne House in London. He stole cars. His father,
a violent man with a long criminal record, beat him regularly. Stewart’s
10 weeks at Sherborne House provided him with positive activities like
sport and metalwork. On his Community Service, he worked with injured
animals. He found caring for animals brought out a tenderness he had not
realised was there. Afterwards he found a job in a veterinary supplies shop,
where his employers found him to be a responsible and energetic employee.
Action plans
Mediation with victims may prompt offenders to a change of heart.
But to sustain their commitment to change, some restorative justice
procedures address the wider issues that lead youngsters into crime.
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