Residents in Haringey given a greater say in how offenders in their area are dealt with

In January this year with little fanfare, one of two London-based Community Justice Courts opened in Haringey.

It is intended that court staff and magistrates in the Community Justice Court work with local residents and community groups to identify issues of concern, to tackle the root causes of crime and anti-social behaviour, and help to reduce reoffending.

The Community Justice Courts are designed to benefit from a multi-agency approach, with strong links to the police, probation, youth offending teams and the Crown Prosecution Service. Important links should also be fostered with community services such as drug and alcohol counselling, housing, victim support, employment advice and community safety partnerships.

By working with the local community in this way it has been shown that the courts can improve knowledge and understanding of, and confidence in, the criminal justice system.

Community Justice Minister, Maria Eagle said:

'Community Justice Courts are an efficient and effective way of conducting court operations, increasing public confidence in the system, reducing crime and giving communities the power to influence decisions. They are invaluable in ensuring that the criminal justice system meets the diverse needs of our local communities.'

If you'd like to find out more, Matthew Hazelton and JPs from the Haringey Community Justice Initiative will be at this month's LCSP meeting to explain what the initiative means for our area. If you can't (or won't!) make that, you can read more on the CJI website or connect with the local Courts Service here on Harringay Online.