Celebrating Restorative Justice Week: Launch of the “Damage and Repair” Oral History Project

This Restorative Justice Week, Sussex Pathways is proud to announce the launch of a landmark initiative: the Damage and Repair Project, an oral history library capturing the voices and stories of key figures who have shaped restorative justice in the UK over the past two decades. Developed in collaboration with our sister charity Why Me, this project honours the evolution of restorative practice and the individuals who have tirelessly championed its principles of healing, accountability, and transformation.

The Damage and Repair Project is more than a collection of interviews—it’s a living archive of wisdom, courage, and change. With the generous support and guidance of the British Library, Sussex Pathways staff undertook training in oral history methodology, equipping them to conduct interviews that are both professionally rigorous and deeply human. This training ensured that each conversation was held with care, curiosity, and respect for the lived experiences of those involved.

Five dedicated members of our team—Louis, Shirl, David, Jan, and Paula—stepped into the role of interviewers, engaging with pioneers, practitioners, and advocates whose work has shaped restorative justice across communities, institutions, and borders. Their interviews offer a rich tapestry of insight, from grassroots activism to policy reform, from personal transformation to systemic impact.

Among these powerful conversations, one stands out as a particular honour. Paula had the privilege of interviewing Sir Charles Pollard, former Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police. Widely recognised as the figure who instigated the introduction of restorative justice to the UK, Sir Charles’s legacy is profound. Under his leadership, Thames Valley became a beacon of restorative innovation, embedding practices that prioritised dialogue, empathy, and repair over punishment alone.

Sir Charles Pollard

In his interview, Sir Charles reflected on the early challenges of advocating for restorative approaches within traditional justice systems, and the enduring importance of listening to those harmed and those responsible. His commitment did not end with his tenure in policing—through retirement, he continued to champion restorative justice globally, influencing policy, mentoring practitioners, and inspiring new generations of changemakers.

The Damage and Repair Project is a tribute to voices like his, and to all those who have walked the path of restoration. It is also a celebration of the Sussex Pathways team, whose dedication to trauma-informed, person-centred practice made this project possible. Their work reminds us that restorative justice is not just a theory—it is a way of being, of relating, and of building a more compassionate society.

We invite you to explore the oral history library, reflect on the stories shared, and join us in honouring the past, present, and future of restorative justice. As we mark this week, may we continue to centre dignity, hope, and repair in all that we do.

Register for the "Damage and Repair" launch event here.

Thurs 20th Nov

1.30-2.30pm

Online, MS Team