New ideas, enduring cultural barriers? An analysis of recommendations from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Restorative Justice in England and Wales

Abstract

Recent years have seen a variety of national and local efforts to implement restorative justice in England and Wales. Yet, despite its appearance in multiple statutes, several national action plans, its strong endorsement in the Victims’ Code of Practice, and its inclusion in the funding remit of elected Police and Crime Commissioners, restorative justice still does not occupy a mainstream position in criminal justice in England and Wales. This article explores the report from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Restorative Justice, formed in 2021 to advocate for the expansion of restorative justice. We analyse the report’s recommendations thematically, focusing on service oversight, the removal of procedural barriers, and the need for dedicated resources – in light of international research and policies. While any jurisdiction implementing restorative justice could learn much from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Restorative Justice’s proposals, criminal justice cultures remain a barrier to mainstreaming restorative justice in England and Wales.