Restorative justice

Question 1

What type of theories inform this policy?

Answer 1

Sociological theories

Question 2

Which specific theory informs this policy and why?

Answer 2

The labelling theory as it believes crime is caused by labels and focuses on breaking labels

Question 3

What is the focus of the policy?

Answer 3

It focuses on breaking down labels and changing how society views the offender

Question 4

What kind of process is it?

Answer 4

Voluntary

Question 5

What are the 4 main aims?

Answer 5

Respect, Accountability, Healing and Empathy

Question 6

What do the victim and offender do?

Answer 6

Talk about the crime and why it happened

Question 7

What must the offender do?

Answer 7

Admit to the crime

Question 8

What are the strengths of this policy?

Answer 8

The government found 85% victim satisfaction and 14% less re-offending.
It’s cost effective, every £1 spent saves CJS £8 in the future ( less re-offending)
Has a long term change as the offender realizes the impact of their actions

Question 9

What are the weaknesses of this policy?

Answer 9

Both the victim and offender have to agree to take part ( victim may be too hurt or offender may not feel guilty)
Can’t be used for all types of crime ( rape, dv or hate crime)
No guarantee that the session will be successful