Perceptions of Restorative Justice for Victims of Domestic Abuse in England and Wales

Perceptions of Restorative Justice for Victims of Domestic Abuse in England and Wales is a critical academic exploration into the intersection of restorative justice and domestic abuse. While traditional criminal justice systems focus primarily on punishment, this work examines whether restorative justice can offer a viable, safer, and more holistic alternative - or complement - for victims of domestic abuse. Through rigorous secondary research and thematic analysis, the book investigates the complex challenges of applying Restorative Justice to domestic abuse cases, where power imbalances, manipulative control, and the risk of re-traumatisation are significant concerns. It balances the potential for victim empowerment, healing, and emotional closure against the risks of coercion and systematic failure. Key themes addressed in the book include: Psychological impact: analyzing the potential for healing versus the risks of emotional re-traumatisation. Power dynamics: examining how abusive relationships can disrupt the equality required for successful restorative processes. Legal frameworks: evaluating current policies, inconsistencies, and the need for a victim-informed, professional-led approach in England and Wales. Safeguarding: proposing necessary frameworks for consent, practitioner training, and risk assessment to ensure the safety and dignity of victims. Bridging the disciplines of psychology and criminology, this book argues that justice should not only seek accountability but must also prioritize the protection, voice, and restorative needs of those impacted by abuse. It is an essential read for practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and students interested in the future of victim-centered justice.