The event took place during Restorative Justice Week 2016 and was hosted by Portadown Football Club, a current reparation provider.

It provided an opportunity for guests in attendance to hear at first hand the experiences of some of those involved in reparation – from a community perspective and an Agency perspective.

Reparation work encourages young people to make genuine efforts to make amends for their offending behaviour while also helping to restore broken relationships within the community. This is done by encouraging the young people to engage meaningfully in the placements and to support them to undertake the reparative activities as part of their statutory orders.

All of the partner organisations in attendance were presented with certificates of appreciation to acknowledge the valuable support they provide to young people.

Michael Heaney, assistant director of the Agency’s Southern Area Team, said: “Our reparation providers deliver a valuable service within the community and I would take this opportunity to pay tribute to each and every one of them for their support and commitment in working with our young people throughout the year. We are extremely grateful for their assistance.”

Jordan Ritchie, community relation liaison officer of Portadown Football Club, added: “As a representative from Portadown Football Club I would like to thank the Youth Justice Agency for organising the reception and for the other partner groups who were in attendance. We are very grateful for the service and support we received, to help reconcile and understand young people.

“The reception was an excellent event and it was great to hear success stories from around the community. We look forward to working with the Youth Justice Agency in the future.”

The Agency is always on the lookout for new reparation placement opportunities and any prospective providers can contact Michael in Banbridge for further information on 028 4062 9158 or email michael.heaney@justice-ni.x.gsi.gov.uk.