Restorative Approaches and Restorative Justice Conferencing Lynne Russell – Director Restorative 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.

The 4 R’s RJ is based on four key features RESPECT RESPONSIBILTY REPAIR REINTEGRATION Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd

Responsibilities and Rights Restorative Justice focuses the individual on their responsibilities to the rights of others

Range of Restorative Approaches Restorative Approaches are a framework of methods that contribute towards the building, maintaining and repairing a community Informal Formal

Everyday Behaviour – Building Skills Informal Formal Everyday Behaviour – Building Skills Restorative rules Restorative language Check in and out Aims for the day Circle time Everyday Conflict –Behaviour Issues Reflection time Non prepared restorative chat or enquiry Classroom conference Informal prepared conference High Level Conflict – Alternative to Exclusion Formal prepared conference Restorative sanctions

Restorative Justice Conferencing is a process that repairs relationships Restorative Approaches develop skills to build and maintain relationships

What can RJ do for a School? 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

Why consider Restorative Approaches? 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!! Lynne Russell - Restorative Justice 4 Schools

What is Restorative Justice Conferencing ? 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 Gravesham Excellence Cluster - BIP

Reintegration and refreshments Conference Process Incident Preparation Conference Reintegration and refreshments Follow Up Gravesham Excellence Cluster - BIP

RJ V Punishment 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 Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd Gravesham Excellence Cluster - BIP

Positive Outcome from Conferencing 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

Implementation: The First Step Staff & Pupils using informal Restorative Approaches Restorative language, contracts, class room rules Check in and check out in form /tutor time Rest. chats to resolve low level conflict RJ Conferencing to resolve high level conflict Administration Policy, referral system Training Resources, Info. for Parents, Staff, Pupils Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd

Training Whole school training 3 Day conferencing facilitation training Peer mentoring/facilitation training Restorative Justice 4 Schools Ltd

Contact Details enquiry@restorativejustice4schools.co.uk www.restorativejustice4schools.co.uk Restorative Justice 4 Schools – Facebook 07773 797 587