Speakers
Janis Proctor
Parallel Workshops
This workshop explores Youth Conferencing practise in cases involving Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB) within the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) of Northern Ireland. Using a rights-based, Child First approach, the process supports children in understanding and taking responsibility for their behaviour while promoting accountability, reintegration, and positive change. It also provides opportunities for victims to participate safely, gain understanding of the offence, and receive support throughout the justice process.
Drawing on practice examples, the workshop outlines the Youth Conferencing process from referral and assessment to preparation, conference delivery, and post-conference interventions. Particular attention is given to adapting restorative approaches to meet the individual needs of children, including those who are neurodivergent, while maintaining a trauma-informed focus on victim wellbeing and safety.
Through discussion and reflection, participants will examine how restorative principles can be effectively applied in HSB cases, increase their understanding of child development, and consider the role of early intervention and diversion in supporting long-term positive outcomes for children, victims, and communities.
Janis Proctor is a Youth Conference Co ordinator with the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) in Northern Ireland, where she works as a restorative practitioner. The YJA delivers both community based and custodial services for children aged 10–17 who are involved in the justice system.
Youth conferencing within the YJA is underpinned by a Child First, Trauma Informed and Needs Based approach, promoting a holistic and individualised response to offending behaviour. Restorative justice practice is central to this process, emphasising participation and direct communication by bringing together those harmed and the child responsible for the harmful behaviour.
In cases involving harmful sexual behaviour, the YJA adopts a flexible and creative approach to youth conferencing, ensuring that victims are supported to have their voice heard. While acknowledging the loss of control experienced by victims, the process seeks to empower them by enabling meaningful participation and influence over outcomes where appropriate.
Wynona Boyd is a Youth Conference Co ordinator with the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) in Northern Ireland, where she works as a restorative practitioner. The YJA delivers both community based and custodial services for children aged 10–17 who are involved in the justice system.
Youth conferencing within the YJA is underpinned by a Child First, Trauma Informed and Needs Based approach, promoting a holistic and individualised response to offending behaviour. Restorative justice practice is central to this process, emphasising participation and direct communication by bringing together those harmed and the child responsible for the harmful behaviour.
In cases involving harmful sexual behaviour, the YJA adopts a flexible and creative approach to youth conferencing, ensuring that victims are supported to have their voice heard. While acknowledging the loss of control experienced by victims, the process seeks to empower them by enabling meaningful participation and influence over outcomes where appropriate.