What happens when a victim and an offender sit down to talk? Commissioner discusses little-known restorative justice scheme

What happens when a victim and an offender meet face-to-face for a conversation?

Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend found out in a wide-ranging new interview with restorative justice facilitator Mike Ledwidge. 

Mike works with victims of crime who want the opportunity to discuss the impact with the offender. 

The little-known scheme is funded by Lisa’s office.

Those who have engaged with the process include a mum who hugged the man responsible for fatally injuring her son, and a daughter given a letter written by a man who killed her father. 

▶️ "I took a lady to meet the man who killed her son" - How restorative justice works in Surrey

While all victims of crime can seek a restorative justice outcome, a meeting will only take place if both the victim and the offender agree to it. 

The scheme is voluntary, and trained facilitators assess risks and ensure the safety of those involved. 

The Commissioner said: “For many people, justice is something that happens only in a courtroom. 

“But we believe it should also be something that gives victims a voice and provides a chance for offenders to truly understand the impact of their criminality. 

“Restorative justice is about more than words. It’s about empathy, responsibility, and hope.” 

Find out more here.