Arun scheme set to give victims a bigger say

The initiative will see those affected by low-level crime and anti-social behaviour getting a chance to speak to those responsible, in an effort to talk about how they were affected and give those who have caused the harm the chance to make amends.

Arun District Council will be the West Sussex pilot as part of the Sussex Criminal Justice Board’s plan to increase community confidence in the justice system by giving people more of a say in how incidents are dealt with.

The pilot entitled Restorative Arun – Giving Communities a Voice, will work in Angmering and Barnham, as well as Bersted.

Cases will be referred by police, local authorities, and other agencies, as well as local community organisations. In every instance, both the person harmed and the person who caused the harm must agree to meet.

Agreed outcomes could include a letter of apology, helping the victim out in some way, or paying for criminal damage. If not completed, the case will be passed back to the referring agency to consider any alternative action.

Volunteers are needed to lead the discussions between offenders and victims. To apply, call 01903 737575 or email [email protected]