Annual_Reports_files/2011-2012 Annual report.pdf - Rebound

RestorativeJustice ForumsMinistry of Attorney GeneralUsing a restorative justice model, Youth JusticeForums deal with youth in conflict with thelaw through a process of responsibility, resolution,restitution, and reconciliation.A Justice Forum is a problem-solvingmethod of resolving an incidentthrough facilitation of a structuredmeeting between the teen whohas harmed another person, theperson(s) who has been harmed,supporters for both and communityvolunteers.In the forum, the young person isheld accountable for their actions.Youth hear how their behaviour hasimpacted the person(s) harmed, aswell as that person’s family. Youthalso hear from their own supporters,giving them the opportunity to seethe care and concern that peoplehave for them.18 youth& their familiesserved at JusticeForums14 forumssuccessfullycompletedThose harmed have a resonatingvoice in the forum process, as theyexpress their feelings, ask questionsand, most importantly, have a sayin the outcome. This process ultimately helpsthe people harmed resolve their feelings ofhelplessness and powerlessness provoked by theincident.The members of the Forum decide how theyoung person can repair the harm that he/shehas inflicted. A contract is written andsigned by all members and the JusticeFacilitator ensures the details of thecontract are fulfilled in a timely manner.The goal is to have the young personleave the Forum experiencing a deepsense of empathy for people.Our Justice staff attend Youth Court ona weekly basis. By doing so we havebeen able to offer immediate supportto the Court, youth and the peopleharmed by the incidents. In addition,we have been able to ease people’saccessibility to the justice forum process.We recently added the role of mentorto the Justice team. A volunteer sits onthe Sarnia-Lambton Justice Committeeand the mentor provides supportencouragement and guidance to theyoung person. This has increased theprogram’s effectiveness as the youthreceive greater support to help themcomplete their agreement.participantquotesPerson who was harmed: “It has helped to hear from the accusedtohear their apologies and how this has impacted their family andthemselves. Its important to me they learn a lesson from this and don’tbecome repeat offenders.”Young person who caused harm: “It made me realize the effects ofwhat I’ve done and what I need to do next to be successful.”17