The offender is held to account for his or her misdeeds, but is offered a hand to rejoin the mainstream society. There are several different types of successful programs embracing the concept of Restorative Justice across Canada. Some are focused on small communities, some on particular groups, such as the Sentencing Circles of First Nations groups. Proven to be most suitable for large urban centres such as Victoria is the Victim Offender Reconciliation Program. The Fraser Region Community Justice Initiatives Association in Langley, British Columbia serves as a model of excellence and long experience from which to build.
Victims report that meeting the offender reduces fears and anxieties, and validates their concerns.
It helps them to move on with their lives. Offenders gain empathy and understanding. They gain peace of mind from reassuring the victim, apologizing, and making reparation. The Dispute Resolution Centre in Victoria has since 1988, provided mediation in civil cases, helping neighbours, business associates and families resolve their disputes in a collaborative manner. We have developed a program of excellence, with clearly defined standards and credentials.