If you have been harmed by serious crime, or have caused harm, this program offers a unique path to seek resolution and healing. If you are ready to take this step, we are here to support you.
What is Restorative Opportunities?
(formerly Victim-Offender Mediation)
The Restorative Opportunities Program is for those involved or affected by traumatic criminal offences. It is a voluntary program offered by the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) that provides help to those who have been harmed by serious crime, and those who have caused harm. For those who have been harmed, it offers a safe and supportive space to address questions, process emotions, and seek closure through dialogue. For those who have caused harm, it provides the opportunity to take responsibility, hear about the impact of their actions, and work toward repair.
Source Video: The Government of Canada
How Does it Help?
Informed by current theory and clinical practice regarding treatment and trauma recovery, our approach promotes accountability, healing and closure. We provide all parties with a process that can lead to new insight, thereby reducing levels of anxiety, and contributing to therapeutic gains. With the help of sensitive staff who are committed to being agents of healing and restoration, there can be a better chance of resolution, recovery and rehabilitation.
In fact, since the 1990’s, when the Restorative Opportunities Program was established, participants have consistently reported positive gains in their recovery. When this program was evaluated in a 1995 report for the Solicitor General of Canada, researcher Tim Roberts reported that in his 30-year experience, this program had one of the most positive evaluations:
“There was unanimous support for the program from all victim and offender respondents interviewed in this study… Respondents found considerable specific and overall value in the program, felt it was ethically and professionally run, and would not hesitate to recommend it to others, [which is] remarkable, considering that the [Restorative Opportunities Program] involves parties who are initially polarized, and who could be expected to hold divergent views about the value of the program.” (Roberts, 1995) CTA:
Looking to know more about the Restorative Opportunities Program? Feel free to email us or fill out a contact form and we would be happy to help you with any inquiries you may have.
Looking to know more about our Restorative Opportunities Program?
Feel free to email us or fill out a contact form and we would be happy to help you with any inquiries you may have.
