Essex Restorative Justice Achieves National Recognition

The RSQM is a badge of quality that demonstrates that a service provides safe, high quality restorative practice which meets the six Restorative Service Standards. The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service joins other RSQM awardees – in sectors ranging from criminal justice through education to care – who are guaranteed to deliver high quality restorative processes.

Jon Collins, the RJC’s chief executive, said: “I would like to congratulate The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service for having successfully completed the RSQM. This is evidence of their commitment to delivering the highest standards in safe and effective restorative justice.”

Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “This is great news for victims. Restorative Justice is proven to deliver positive results for those who have been victims of crime or Anti-Social Behaviour, and can lead perpetrators to understand the harm they have caused and change their behaviour. I am delighted that the Essex Restorative and Mediation Service, led by Emma Callaghan who has created the Restorative Justice hub in our county, has received national recognition for the quality of its work.”

The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service gives those affected by crime or ASB the opportunity to meet or communicate with those who have caused them harm. It holds offenders to account and helps them take responsibility for the harm they have caused. Both parties discuss next steps and the perpetrators can then make amends.
Victims are given the chance to explain the impact the crime or conflict has had on them, ask questions of the perpetrator and seek an apology. If a face to face meeting is not appropriate they can do so indirectly via letters or messages.

Emma Callaghan, Restorative Justice Hub Development Manager, The Essex Restorative and Mediation Service, said: “We wanted to apply for the RSQM as we believe it will give the public a greater confidence in the work that we do. Building trust is a very important part of the relationship between victims and facilitators and a quality mark will go a long way to demonstrate that we are good at what we do.

“The RSQM is a lot of work, but the benefits are well worth it. It allows you to scrutinise each area of your service and for us, resulted in many beneficial amendments and developments that would have otherwise gone unnoticed or ignored. The RJC were also very supportive throughout.
“By completing the RSQM, your service will be better and more efficient for you, your partners and ultimately, the recipients of your service.”

You can learn more about Restorative Justice and watch short films at the links below:
https://www.essex.pfcc.police.uk/priorities-for-essex/restorative-justice/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMFmxdWZ-No