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Restorative Justice Community Conference

This restorative process may occur as part of the case file flow for EJM (pre-charge diversion) or EJS (post-charge diversion) programs offered by RJCK. However, an RJ Community Conference could be deemed as beneficial in other instances of conflict involving youth (i.e. in the school setting), that do not necessarily involve law enforcement.

Upon referral/request for assistance in this area, and if deemed an appropriate ‘next step’ after consulting with the referral source, RJCK staff can help to organize and facilitate an RJ Conference in other community environments involving youth. This process is voluntary and all parties involved must be willing to participate; youth (under 16 years) must have parent/guardian consent to participate.

Included in Process:

  • those individuals harmed [the victim(s)]
  • the young person who caused the harm
  • each of their respective supporters/family members/guardians
  • RJCK trained community volunteers; RJCK conference facilitator
  • any other relevant community partner representatives – i.e. teacher, school administrator, police officer involved, etc.

The RJ Community Conference is a chance for the young person involved to take responsibility, be held accountable, and make amends for what he/she did, while repairing the harm caused to those individuals directly impacted and the community-at-large. It is also an opportunity for those individuals impacted/victims to have a real voice and feel empowered; this restorative process truly brings the community of Chatham-Kent together in helping to restore broken relationships and ties.

“Restorative Justice strives to provide support and opportunities for communication between those affected to encourage accountability, reparation, and movement towards understanding, feelings of satisfaction, healing, and closure.”

This program is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services

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