By Julie Clark, Restorative Justice Service Manager
I had the privilege of visiting HMP Thameside recently, where a week of Restorative Justice (RJ) events was taking place. Thanks to Chloe Ives from Catch22, Calm Mediation was invited to join in and facilitate a meaningful discussion with a group of inmates.
We gathered in the prison’s barber shop, which was set up in a surprisingly welcoming way with comfy chairs that made for a relaxed environment—perfect for an open and honest conversation. It was a unique setting, and the atmosphere immediately put everyone at ease.
Exploring the Impact of Crime
The focus of our discussion was the ripple effect of crime. We talked about how crime affects not just victims, but also offenders, their families, and the wider community. It’s easy to forget that the consequences of crime extend far beyond the immediate harm done to the victim. In our conversation, we explored how Restorative Justice (RJ) can address these far-reaching impacts and help all those involved move forward.
We discussed the purpose of RJ in various settings—whether in a prison, in a school, or within a community—and how it encourages empathy and accountability. The group had insightful questions about the process and the reasons people choose to participate in RJ. We spoke about the ways it allows individuals to reflect on their actions, hear directly from those impacted, and ultimately find a path to healing.
From Serious Conversations to Light-Hearted Moments
Of course, it wasn’t all serious talk. We found plenty of room for light-hearted moments too. One of the most engaging parts of the discussion was when we debated whether there is such a thing as a “victimless crime.” The group had some thought-provoking perspectives on that, and we covered everything from the philosophical to the more playful, like the size of a tin of Celebrations chocolates!
It was a reminder that even in the most serious conversations, it’s important to balance deep reflection with moments of humour and connection. Restorative Justice is about understanding the complexity of human experience, and sometimes that includes finding moments of levity, even when discussing difficult topics.
A Heartfelt Thank You
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the group of inmates who took the time to share their thoughts, feelings, and opinions. The discussion was thought-provoking and at times quite emotional. It’s not easy to talk openly about the impact of crime, but the group’s willingness to engage so openly made for a truly meaningful exchange.
A big thank you also to Chloe and the team at ‘Catch22’ for inviting Calm Mediation to be part of such an important initiative. It’s an honour to contribute to the ongoing conversation about Restorative Justice and its potential to heal and transform.
If you’d like to learn more about Restorative Justice and the work we do, feel free to visit our website or get in touch. The power of RJ lies in its ability to bring people together, listen, and move forward with understanding. It was clear to me from this session at HMP Thameside just how transformative this process can be for everyone involved.
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