North Yorkshire Youth Justice Service helps children who have broken the law understand the impact of their actions. They also encourage them to take responsibility for what they did and make amends to victims and the community.
If you have agreed for the police to share your details with us, a Victim Liaison Officer will contact you. Your involvement is voluntary, but we can offer you the opportunity to:
- receive information about the outcome of the case
- share your views and ask questions such as “why did it happen to me?”
- tell the child how their crime affected you
- suggest ideas for reparation work the child could do
What you can expect from us
We will:
- listen to you and keep you informed about the case
- treat you with respect and support any decision you make
- refer you to other support services if you want
- make sure your views are considered
- arrange for restorative justice if appropriate
- provide safeguarding support where necessary
- follow the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime
Your options
You can choose whether to be involved and you can change your mind at any time. We can provide updates about the case and explain any relevant court orders or Youth Outcome Panel decisions.
Restorative Justice and Reparation
Our goal is to reduce crime by helping children understand the harm they have caused and encouraging them to make amends.
Reparation gives children a chance to put things right, either directly with their victim or through the community. Examples include:
- writing a letter of apology
- repairing damage
- helping in a community garden
- supporting a local project
Restorative Justice offers victims the opportunity to meet the child who committed the offence, ask questions and explain the personal impact of the crime. Participation is voluntary for everyone involved and full support is provided throughout.
Restorative Justice often helps victims gain closure and a sense of peace. Research shows that 85% of victims who take part are satisfied with the process and it leads to a 14% reduction in reoffending.
You can find out more about Restorative Justice on the Restorative Justice Council's website.
