CRJ Derry achieves Department of Justice accreditation for Restorative Justice Services

Community Restorative Justice Derry (CRJ Derry) has been awarded Organisational Accreditation by the Department of Justice under the Adult Restorative Justice Practice Standards and Accreditation Framework.

The accreditation recognises CRJ Derry’s commitment to delivering safe, accountable and effective restorative justice services within the community. As part of the accreditation process, the organisation was required to demonstrate that its governance, safeguarding arrangements, operational procedures, case management systems and practitioner competency meet the professional standards required for delivering restorative justice interventions.

Restorative justice is a process which supports people who have been harmed by crime or conflict to have their voices heard and to explain the impact of that harm. It also provides an opportunity for those responsible for the harm to take accountability and work towards repairing the damage caused. The approach places the needs of the person harmed at the centre of the process and aims to promote constructive outcomes for individuals and communities.

CRJ Derry staff have also received practitioner accreditation under the framework, recognising their training, professional competence and commitment to restorative justice principles and practice.

CRJ Derry Manager Martin Connolly welcomed the accreditation, stating: “We are very pleased to have achieved organisational accreditation under the Department of Justice Adult Restorative Justice Framework. This recognises the high standards of practice maintained by CRJ Derry and the professionalism and dedication of our staff in delivering restorative justice services within the community.

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“This accreditation strengthens our ability to support people who have experienced harm, address conflict in a constructive way and promote positive outcomes through restorative approaches. It also reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement.”

CRJ Derry has worked within local communities for many years supporting individuals and communities to resolve conflict, repair harm and build safer neighbourhoods through restorative practice. The organisation continues to work with local residents and community partners to promote dialogue, accountability and positive community outcomes.

In addition to restorative justice interventions, CRJ Derry also provides community mediation services to help address neighbourhood disputes and community issues. These services are free and available to local residents who can contact CRJ Derry directly for support.