On 30 May 2022, Scottish Justice Secretary Keith Brown welcomed the launch of two hubs that will pave the way for restorative justice services to be rolled out across Scotland.

The new National Hub within Community Justice Scotland, will have a strategic, oversight role. It will also manage delivery of an initial test project in the Edinburgh, Lothian and Borders area establishing best working practices, before services are developed in other regions.

This hub and spoke model will allow nationally high standards of service to be maintained, while also offering restorative justice that meets local needs and circumstances.

In addition a Thriving Survivors hub is being set up to offer a safe, trauma informed service to support cases involving sexual harm.

The Scottish Government has so far invested more than £725,000 in the roll out of restorative justice services.

Mr Brown said:

“Providing a national restorative justice service is consistent with our clear commitment to putting victims at the heart of the justice system.

“It is absolutely vital that victims are given a voice via person-centred services where their needs and values are respected and supported as part of their journey towards healing and recovery.

“It is crucial the service provided is safe, consistent, and of a high standard nationally and fundamentally it is vital to remember this is voluntary and must have the needs of the person who has been harmed central to the process.

“It is not a substitute or alternative to the criminal justice system but a means of putting victims first in a way that I am sure will be of benefit to a number of people for very many years to come.”

More Information: https://www.gov.scot/news/restorative-justice-launch/