Supporting victims
We understand that being affected by crime can have a significant impact on your life. We will listen to your experiences and work with you to identify the support that is right for you.
Our support is free and tailored to your individual needs.
How we can support you
We can:
- keep you informed about the young person's progress through the youth justice process, where appropriate
- explain your rights and the support available to you
- discuss restorative justice and whether it may be suitable for you
- represent your views and safety concerns at youth justice meetings
- support you with compensation-related processes
- refer or signpost you to specialist support services
- work with other organisations on your behalf, such as the police, health services or employers, where appropriate
Restorative justice
Restorative justice brings together people who have been affected by crime and the person responsible for the harm.
It gives victims the opportunity to ask questions, explain the impact the incident has had on them and discuss how the harm could be repaired. It also helps young people understand the effect of their actions and take responsibility for them.
Taking part in restorative justice is entirely voluntary. Both parties must agree before any activity can take place.
Types of restorative justice
Restorative justice can take different forms, including:
- a restorative conference held in a safe and supported environment
- indirect communication where messages are passed between both parties
- letter writing
- online meetings
- video messages
- community reparation activities that help repair harm caused to the wider community
How restorative justice works
A trained restorative justice practitioner will meet with you to discuss:
- what happened
- the impact it has had on you
- any questions you would like answered
- what outcomes may help move things forward
The practitioner will also speak separately with the young person involved to discuss their understanding of the harm caused and whether they wish to participate.
If both parties agree, the practitioner will arrange the most suitable form of communication.
You can withdraw from the process at any time and will never be pressured to take part.
Support for young victims
If you are under 18, we will normally need consent from a parent or carer before working directly with you.
In addition to the support available to all victims, we may be able to connect you with services that support:
- health and wellbeing
- education
- mental health
- healthy lifestyles and physical activity
- drugs and alcohol support
- practical skills and positive activities
Your rights as a victim
The Victims' Code on the Victim Support website, explains the rights and support available to victims of crime.
How we use your information
We manage personal information in line with our Youth Justice Service privacy information.
If you agree, the police may share your details with us so that we can offer support, restorative justice and reparation opportunities where appropriate.
We will:
- keep your information confidential
- explain how your information will be used
- respect your choice if you decide not to take part
- respect your decision if you choose to withdraw from the process at any stage