The Department of Justice has released the 2024/25 Annual Progress Report for the Adult Restorative Justice Strategy, marking the third major update since the initiative's launch in 2022.

The report details the ongoing efforts to broaden the use of restorative justice practices across the region, focusing on repairing harm and improving the experience of victims. A central achievement noted in the update is the creation of a new Practice Standards and Accreditation Framework.

This framework is designed to establish clear benchmarks for organisations and individuals wishing to become accredited. It outlines specific requirements for training and competency, with the goal of fostering a more integrated and consistent approach within the wider adult criminal justice system. Justice Minister Naomi Long stated: "This third Progress Report is an important update on our work in restorative justice over the past year. Key actions progressed include the development of a new Practice Standards and Accreditation Framework, which will clearly set out the requirements to become accredited and promote consistent, quality practice. The framework, and the work that it guides moving forward, will also encourage integration of restorative justice within the adult criminal justice system."

The publication follows the appointment of an Interim Protocol Lead earlier in the 2024/25 period, a role tasked with promoting the use of these practices and managing the accreditation process. The strategy continues to aim for a more victim-centred justice model by providing alternatives to traditional punitive measures where appropriate.