A student who was racially abused as he walked down the street in Salford has called for more victims to take part in restorative justice.
Jack, 20, was wearing the Jewish kippah – or skullcap – and was walking home from synagogue during Jewish New Year 2011, when the driver of a passing car hurled anti-Semitic abuse at him.
Taking down the car’s registration he called police, and a week later they called back.
The offender had been traced, and was told to write a letter of apology to Jack, now 24, as well as meeting him face-to-face.
And while he admits the abuse “didn’t have a massive impact on me personally”, Jack says he wanted the offender to see how his words could hurt “a more vulnerable member of the community”.
“What if it is was your mum or gran, for example?”, he asks.
“Incidents like this have a wider impact on the Jewish community and can instill fear.”
Meeting the offender – who was of a similar age – allowed Jack “to understand his mindset…and [for him] to see the consequences of his crime.”
“It was incredibly rewarding,” he said.
“Where the victim is comfortable and the crime fits, I would wholeheartedly encourage other people to go down this route.”
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle said: “Jack’s story shows that when used in the right way, restorative justice really works, allowing criminals to face up to what they’ve done and giving victims the closure they need.
“However, it must be used appropriately and be victim-led and victim-focused. If the victim is not comfortable with the process and doesn’t feel involved then restorative justice is not the way to go.
“Restorative justice is proving successful in Greater Manchester and we want more victims to have the opportunity to take part in this process.”
The Greater Manchester Victims’ Services website, commissioned by Tony Lloyd, provides advice and information for victims of crime who may want to take part in restorative justice. Visit GM Victims to find out more.
Restorative Justice Week takes place between 15 and 22 November to celebrate and raise awareness of restorative justice.
