Community Justice Conference
Method, Participation and Barriers
Method of Engagement and Reason Chosen
A conference was chosen to reach many partnership services simultaneously. The conference format allowed Community Justice Officers to bring in a number of people to present on the topic of Community Justice and share important stories and information. It featured presentations on Community Justice, linked to ongoing or upcoming projects in Shetland. Attendees could ask questions and network during breaks. Interactive activities included a pre- and post-event question on community-based sentences, though all attendees initially supported the concept. This activity might be more impactful with the general public, who may have less knowledge of Community Justice.
Participants and Promotion
The event was promoted at the Community Justice Partnership quarterly meeting, with invitations sent to targeted services, including elected members and third sector organisations. Keynote speaker Karyn McCluskey, Chief Executive for Community Justice Scotland, shared a compelling case of a young adult whose life improved through community justice. Presentations covered payback order successes, family support, youth justice initiatives like 'No Knives, Better Lives,' restorative justice, emotional wellbeing, and the new community justice plan. Attendees were invited to provide feedback for action planning.
Overcoming any Barriers to Participation
When organising the lunch, the dietary requirements for those attending was checked to ensure the catering was suitable for any specific needs. The organisers also made sure that there was access to the building for those with mobility issues. Sound Hall, where the event was held, had a side access for this. A hearing loop was also brought for anyone with a hearing impairment.