Nelson Police Department Restorative Justice is Now Recruiting Volunteer Restorative Justice Facilitators
By Nelson Daily Staff
For people who want to make a difference in Nelson by finding a solution instead of letting the courts take over following the aftermath of crime and other harmful behaviour, a position with the Restorative Justice team is an opportunity to achieve this goal.
The Nelson Police Department Restorative Justice (NPDRJ) program is currently in the process of recruiting dedicated volunteers for the position of Restorative Justice Facilitator.
The program seeks to empower participants to share their experiences and to explore collaboratively ways to repair the harm.
“This is a non-adversarial, non-retributive approach to justice that views crime and conflict as harm done to people and relationships,” said Anita Werner, NPD Restorative Justice Coordinator.
“Restorative Justice is a philosophy that emphasizes healing in victims, accountability of offenders, and the involvement of citizens.”
Werner said where the Criminal Justice system promotes a “win-lose” outcome with charges, pleas and court, the Restorative Justice model promotes “win-win” outcomes with those involved making decisions about how the harm can be repaired.
The NPDRJ program was launched in April of 2014.
Volunteers completed 47 hours of training in preparation for the important task of managing files involving such crimes as theft, assault, mischief, and break and enter. Volunteers continue to acquire and refine the skills required to take on complex cases and emotionally challenging situations.
Werner said currently 12 trained volunteers from a cross-section of the community, with backgrounds in education, technology, trades and business, have successfully completed 27 files, with four files in progress.
“NPDRJ facilitators work to design a restorative response that meets the needs of all participants,” she said.
“They provide victims with the opportunity to express how the incident has impacted them, help offenders understand the impact of their actions and empower them to take responsibility for the harm caused. They create value by strengthening mutual understanding to build consensus for a meaningful, reasonable, and fair resolution.”
Werner said training is slated during October and November with additional training offered through-out the volunteer’s position with NPDRJ.
Chosen applicants will be required to consent to a Vulnerable Persons/ Police Criminal Record Check.
Deadline for applications, which can be found on the NPD website or in person at NPD office at 606 Stanley Street, is August 15, 2016.
For more information on Restorative Justice, our program, or for clarification about the application process, please call 250 505-5654 or email [email protected]
