One of the new features of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, which came into force on the 20th October 2014, is the introduction of the Community Remedy. The act places a duty on the Police and Crime Commissioner to consult with the local community on what restorative or rehabilitative actions they feel are appropriate to be included in the Community Remedy.
Our updated consultation period will run between 15 May 2017 and the 16 June 2017 via an online survey.
What is the Community Remedy?
The Community Remedy is a list of appropriate actions that can be used by the police in response to low level crime and anti-social behaviour such as;
- Low level criminal damage
- Low value theft
- Anti-Social Behaviour (no crime committed)
The list will give victims a say in how the offender is dealt with out of court.
When can the Community Remedy be used?
The remedy can be used when:
- An offender commits a low level crime or anti-social behaviour
- Offender admits to committing the offence
- The police officer feels that the community remedy is an appropriate action
- The offender has to agree to this course of action.
What is Restorative Justice?
Restorative Justice is an action that gives the victim the chance to come face to face with the offender and makes them accept responsibility for their actions and see the damage they have caused. The benefits of Restorative Justice are:
- Gives victims the opportunity to tell offenders the effect that their actions have had on their lives.
- Victims can ask for an explanation from the offender.
- Victims can receive an apology or other form of reparation from the offender.
Does Restorative Justice Work?
Restorative Justice has received a high satisfaction rate from victims because they have more involvement in taking action against the offenders. Evidence from the Ministry of Justice has revealed that this form of action has seen a 14% reduction in reoffending and therefore, has a positive effect on both the offenders and the victims.