lynne russell – director restorative justice 4 schools
TRANSCRIPT
Lynne Russell – DirectorRestorative 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.
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Restorative Justice focuses the individual on their
responsibilities to the rights of others
Restorative Approaches are a framework of methods that contribute towards the building, maintaining and repairing a community
Informal Formal
Informal Formal
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
Lynne Russell - Restorative Justice 4 Schools
Endeavour High school in Hull: From Spring 2007 – July 2008
45.6% reduction in incidents of verbal abuse 59.4% reduction in incidents of physical abuse 43.2% reduction in incidents of disruptive
behaviour 78.6% reduction in incidents of racist incidents 100% reduction in incidents of drug use 50% reduction in incidents of theft 44.5% reduction in fixed term exclusions 62.5% reduction in total days of staff absence *
* a saving of over £60,000 in the first 8 months!!
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
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
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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
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www.restorativejustice4schools.co.uk
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