International Restorative Justice week 2021 is a timely opportunity to introduce myself.  I am Nicola Coker, the Restorative Practice Development Manager for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. I am responsible for our partnerships, the delivery of training and the development of restorative approaches in Wiltshire and Swindon.

Prior to this role, I worked for Wiltshire Police for 14 years as a member of police staff.  My former roles have enabled me to gain a variety of skills to support me as the Restorative Practice Development Manager.  When I started researching restorative justice, I was in awe.  How did I not know about his before?  I remember watching several videos which reduced me to tears, I absolutely wanted this role and to be part of this amazing, powerful and impactive process. This role has also sparked my desire to become a volunteer facilitator – why wouldn’t I?

I am passionate about restorative practice and my aim is to raise awareness and embed this process as part of our everyday life.  I will work with criminal justice, local authority, education and voluntary sector partners to develop and embed restorative approaches across the county.  Using a multi-agency approach will help to evolve restorative expertise in order to ensure that effective, consistent and high-quality services are available to everyone in our communities including victims of crime.

To find out more about Restorative Justice in Wiltshire visit: https://www.wiltshire-pcc.gov.uk/Horizon/restorative-justice/