VOULNTEERS, magistrates, policy makers and other professionals from across the criminal justice service were invited to a Restorative Justice Conference earlier this month.

The event was jointly hosted by Somerset Community Justice Partnership and Avon and Somerset Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC).

The theme of the event was ‘Hearing the Victim’s Voice: The New Local Justice by Local People’ and provided an opportunity to discuss the Criminal Justice Service and to consider victims experiences.

Guest heard from a range of speakers including chair of the Magistrates Association, Richard Monkhouse, Helen Rosenthal and Marc Hole from the OPCC and Jon Collins the chief executive officer of the Restorative Justice Council.

Avon and Somerset Restorative Justice Development manager, Helen Rosenthal said: “Through the development of restorative justice services in Avon and Somerset we want to provide a complete victim-focused restorative justice service available throughout all stages of the Criminal Justice Service or as an alternative, for all victims of crime and anti-social behaviour.

“This can only be achieved by working closely with partner organisations to develop a truly joined-up approach to delivering restorative justice services. "It is only by adopting a multi-agency approach, that we can be committed to delivering our vision, improving the experience of victims throughout their journey.”

To find out more about Somerset Community Justice Partnership visit – scjp.org.uk