Language barriers in Restorative Justice meetings

Posted on: 19th, April 2024

We offer Restorative Justice following any crime where there is an identifiable victim and offender, so it’s important that language barriers between parties don’t impact anyone’s ability to access our service. 

Where necessary, we use an external translator service to help victims and offenders communicate. It’s essential that this intermediary translates participants’ words verbatim, as nuance can be lost if questions, answers or explanations are paraphrased or condensed. Using translators means that participants who would not otherwise have the chance to experience the benefits of Restorative Justice - it can help both offender and victim gain closure and move on from a crime, provides the offender with the chance to apologise, explain and make amends, and can alleviate mental health issues resulting from the crime  - have the opportunity to do so. 

If you think Restorative Justice could be right for you, please get in touch.