Inaugural Restorative Justice APPG Inquiry Launched
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Restorative Justice has launched a ground-breaking inquiry into Restorative Practices in 2021/22. The Inquiry marks the first major piece of work for the APPG, which was only constituted in April 2021. The Inquiry will look at the current use of Restorative Justice and Practices across the country and seek to identify focused recommendations to improve the performance and outcome.
The Chairman of the APPG, Elliot Colburn MP (Carshalton and Wallington) announced the formation of an Advisory Board and the accepting by the APPG of their proposed Terms of Reference at the recent meeting of the APPG. He commented:
“I have been struck by how effective restorative justice can be through speaking with two residents of Sutton, Ray and Vi Donovan. Their story is inspiring and I am delighted to be working so closely with the industry to find areas where the government may be able to improve its support for these practices.
“This Inquiry can act as a real springboard to bring both practitioners and also those who have experienced the benefits of Restorative Justice together. I am very much looking forward to hearing their stories over the next month.”
The Inquiry will be guided by the newly established Advisory Board, comprising of seven organisations from across the Restorative Justice sector. The Chairman of the Advisory Board is Jim Simon, the Chief Executive of the Restorative Justice Council. He commented:
“This Inquiry will bring many stakeholders together to reflect on the 2012 and 2017 government priorities for Restorative Justice and assess how these are progressing. We want to consider what changes may need to be made to improve the quality and availability of restorative justice and practice.
“I am really looking forward to hearing from the industry and to prepare constructive recommendations to the APPG and government.”
The Inquiry will run from the 5th July through until the 15th August. Those wishing to contribute are encouraged to contact CalComms, the Group secretariat, at asa@calcomms.co.uk or to access the APPG website at www.rjappg.co.uk.