“I just don’t think they’re taking it seriously”: Professional perspectives on the barriers to take up of restorative justice in the UK

Dominic Pearson, Lucy Spearing, Natasha Fletcher

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Despite known benefits, the uptake of restorative justice (RJ) in the United Kingdom has been patchy. A need for further research regarding the systemic influences on RJ was addressed using a phased mixed-methods design. First, a survey of RJ professionals investigated general attitudes to known barriers to uptake. Results called for a more proactive approach to raising awareness; whether with the general public or in the process of making offers. Next a sub-sample of the same RJ professionals was interviewed, with analysis producing three main themes: lack of national support for RJ; barriers initiating restorative services; and, poor public understanding and awareness of RJ. Deficient national support was interpreted as the central reason for limited take-up. Underwhelming take-up is associated not only with programme-specific but moreover with socio-political factors. Improved national governance and support would address not only funding, staffing, and relationships between services, but also take a longitudinal view by providing RJ systematically within education settings.
Original languageEnglish
JournalBritish Journal of Community Justice
Publication statusAccepted for publication - 6 Aug 2024

Keywords

  • Criminal Justice System
  • Offenders
  • Probation
  • Restorative Justice
  • Victims

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