2022-2023: National Victims Roundtable on the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights

Summary Report – February 2025

Executive summary

On March 2nd and 3rd, 2023, Public Safety Canada's (PS) National Office for Victims (NOV) met with victim stakeholders and non-governmental organizations to discuss the role of victims in the federal corrections and conditional release system and their rights under the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights (CVBR). The roundtable event was divided into two sessions.

The first session covered themes related to enhancing victims' and survivors' choice and options within the context of the federal corrections and parole systems and enhancing access and accessibility to information. The second session touched on restorative justice and improving public education about victims' rights and services available in the federal corrections and parole system.

Please note that this report summarizes group presentations (Appendix B) as well as multiple breakout sessions which took place over the course of the engagement session. The issues and participant recommendations outlined in this report fall within the responsibility of PS's Portfolio and any suggestions/recommendations pertaining to activities of provincial/territorial jurisdiction or matters for which other federal departments are responsible will not be included in this report but instead shared with appropriate partners.

Introduction

On March 2nd and 3rd, 2023, Public Safety Canada's (PS) National Office for Victims (NOV) hosted a National Victims Roundtable. Representatives from the NOV, Correctional Services Canada (CSC), Parole Board of Canada (PBC), the Department of Justice's Policy Centre for Victims Issues (PCVI), non-governmental organizations, and victim stakeholders attended the roundtable discussions. The purpose was to obtain participants' suggestions and recommendations on improving the federal corrections and parole system for victims and their families. To do so, participants discussed the following topics within the context of the federal corrections and conditional release on how the Government of Canada can:

• improve federal corrections and parole systems for victims, survivors, and their families
• raise awareness about restorative justice opportunities to those victims and survivors who may be interested in participating
• improve public education about victims' rights and services available in the federal corrections and parole system; and
• enhance access and accessibility to information

This summary report provides an overview of the Public Safety Portfolio's mandates (Appendix A) and a brief description of the Government presentations that were provided (Appendix B). The roundtable also served as a forum for victim stakeholders to ask questions and network with fellow victim advocates from across Canada.

Day one

Session 1: Improving federal corrections & parole system for victims and their families

Enhancing victims' and survivors' choice and options to ensure their CVBR rights are respected.

System navigation

Many participants described real-world experiences of navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. Encountering sudden victimization, loss, injuries and stress, victims often feel frustration and anxiety upon encountering a criminal justice system that is complex and filled with endless networks of information and assistance. To address stress and anxiety, participants suggested a single point of contact (i.e., Victim Navigator), who acts as an information liaison. A Victim Navigator would aim to assist victims navigate and secure more information and support. This would include informing victims and survivors about their rights and options. In this role, navigators would help clients navigate various available resources to ensure that their needs are being met, including initial contact and/or follow-up with providers or resources as needed. Moreover, participants suggested that Victim Navigators would function to provide an interpretive walkthrough of information. Additional suggestions can be found later is this report on how to improve online navigation to assist victims' comprehension of their rights and the information services available to them in the federal corrections and parole system.

Proactive provision of information

Participants emphasized their desire to receive information about the justice system in a proactive manner from the moment the crime is committed. A proactive approach would ensure that victims and survivors automatically receive information about their rights instead of having to request it. Many stakeholders agreed that victims and survivors feel the onus to request information should not rest with them. To enhance choice and options, victims and survivors should be informed of their rights at first contact. Many feel that the lack of proactivity with respect to provision of information and victim registration interferes with a victim's ability to exercise their rights. For example, if victims are unaware of the requirement to register^{Footnote 1}, they may miss opportunities to participate in the criminal justice system. Participants noted that by proactively informing victims, we can ensure that those who suffer harm know and can assert their rights.

Applying first voice, cultural awareness

Some participants remembered encountering barriers when seeking information and services. Such barriers can have significant negative emotional impacts. As many noted, cultural competence and awareness of diverse needs should be a core requirement in the field of victim assistance. Participants raised the importance of making all victims and survivors feel welcomed. Stakeholders stressed the importance of providing services in a manner that is nonjudgmental and commensurate with a victim's age, gender, culture, ethnicity, religion, geography, dis/ability, and sexual orientation. One participant indicated that learning to serve diverse populations takes a lifetime of work and dedication. As they suggested, victim-serving personnel should receive comprehensive and fulsome training related to addressing barriers such as stereotyping, accessibility, value differences, communication styles, and language and interpreter bias.

Training

Participants noted that to provide choice and options to victims and survivors, personnel should be appropriately informed of services, programs, and funding options. As a result, personnel should be provided continuous training to develop and maintain working knowledge of the status of programs, engagement, and initiatives to enhance victim participation.

Access, infrastructure, and funding

Many stakeholders acknowledge the geographical and digital divide related to accessing victim information and services. As representatives from rural and remote regions noted, the allocation of services and supports are based on regional geographical areas, which often physically excludes large parts of rural and remote regions. The services are generally located in or near urban centers and outreach is generated from the central point. This applies to community services as well as essential services such as phone, hydro, transportation, and broadband services. Such barriers can create limitations with victims' and survivors' choices and options. Participants suggested that departments/agencies should consider methods of providing services to rural and remote communities (e.g., virtual, or call-in options).

Funding

Stakeholders noted that more grants and contributions should be made available to support projects and activities that encourage the development of new and innovative approaches to service delivery.^{Footnote 2} For example, one participant suggested that funding be provided for the setup of community tele-hubs where victims and survivors can access technologies to participate in the criminal justice process (e.g., virtual parole hearings). Stakeholders noted that many victims and survivors may not have access to technology (e.g., computers, telephones, conference equipment) required to participate in virtual sessions, especially those in rural and remote communities.

Accountability mechanisms

Participants emphasized the importance of accountability mechanisms for federal departments and agencies. Many participants advocated on behalf of victims and survivors noting that the complaints^{Footnote 3} processes for each agency and department are hard to find and navigate. With that said, stakeholders noted confusion with the lack of clarity surrounding defined roles and responsibility of criminal justice officials and service providers' obligations and responsibilities to victims. During the complaints process, participants noted that victims would like an opportunity for more dialogue with agencies/departments. For example, stakeholders suggested that victims and survivors should be given the opportunity to engage in dialogue of various formats (e.g., written submissions, letters of response, oral feedback).

Directory of resources

Stakeholders stressed the importance of having a comprehensive directory of services and resources available in one location. Participants acknowledged existing databases and resource directories like the Justice Canada's Victim Services Directory; however, they mentioned a desire for these to include more resources. As participants mentioned, directories should not only include information for victims but should include information for basic services, including but not limited to housing, public health, legal aid, wellness, transportation, language interpretation, education support, and childcare and family support. Stakeholders also proposed that databases and directories should be updated quarterly.

Continuity of service

Continuity in service delivery throughout the justice system is an essential element for victims of crime. Participants stressed the importance of responses from various sources along the continuum of support reflecting consistent and correct information, high quality of service, and a commitment to providing assistance. Participants asserted that continuity can be achieved only through effective collaboration between service providers and other criminal justice professionals who are dedicated to the same objective. As participants suggested, when identifying relevant resources for victim assistance, personnel should be responsible for providing a 'warm handoff' that personally links victims to other agencies, organizations, or programs. Personnel should also be responsible for follow-up as needed and where appropriate.

Session 2: Federal Framework to Reduce Recidivism

With the exception of those serving a life sentence for murder or those serving an indeterminate sentence because of a Dangerous Offender finding by the Court, most people serving federal sentences are serving a definite sentence, meaning a sentence of a fixed length of time that is two or more years. The majority of these people will, at some point, return to the community.^{Footnote 4}

The Federal Framework to Reduce Recidivism (FFRR) is the Government of Canada's first step in putting together a plan that identifies crucial factors that impact why people reoffend and how to support safe and successful reintegration into the community. The goal is to increase public safety by

• reducing recidivism
• preventing victimization
• addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous People, Black Canadians and other marginalized groups in our criminal justice system; and ultimately
• create safer communities

What are important considerations from a victims' perspective?

Outreach and education

Due to a lack of familiarity with the FFRR, stakeholders agreed that relevant information on the framework should be available to the public. Participants suggested building knowledge and awareness of the framework by clarifying its core objectives and highlight its shared goals of creating safer communities and reducing victimization. Participants noted that information about the framework should be shared through written materials such as fact sheets.

Continuity of service

To enhance continuity of care for both victims and offenders, participants noted that connections should be made between institutions and the community, to ensure seamless continuity of care. As noted, offenders exiting corrections should have continuity of services and supports in place well ahead of their release. Stakeholders suggested that a wrap-around models are effective for person-centered case management for both victims and offenders. As many noted, there should be continuity from intake to discharge, between Institutional Correctional officers, the community Parole officers, Elders, and community support organizations.

Safety conditions

Participants felt that safety and security are key considerations when discussing the reintegration of inmates back into the community as law abiding citizens. Some participants expressed concern that previously incarcerated individuals will be accessing resources and assistance in proximity to where victims may live, work, and socialize in the community. Stakeholders stressed the importance of strategically planning where resources and assistance will be accessed.

Research and evaluation

Participants agreed that a monitoring and evaluation framework should be implemented to assess progress and impact of the FFRR over time. Participants emphasized having an evaluation framework in place to monitor the FFRR's effectiveness, draw conclusions, and provide opportunity for input and recommendations.

Cultural awareness

Stakeholders acknowledged that there is an overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples, Black, and racialized Canadians in federal correctional institutions. As such, resources and information targeted to those reintegrating into communities should be culturally relevant and appropriate. Offenders reintegrating into communities should have access to cultural and spiritual services that are required for growth, change, and reintegration. Effective delivery of resources and services requires providing services that offenders need, in the way that takes in to account their needs. Service providers should be aware that this will vary according to culture and background.

Resources

Some stakeholders raised concerns over emphasis on provision of resources and services for offenders as many victims and survivors do not have equitable access to services and resources. While participants agreed that offenders should have access to resources to support their safe, structured and gradual reintegration into the community, many felt that allocation of resources should take a more balanced approach to meeting the needs of both victims and offenders.

Session 3: Survey on victims' involvement in restorative justice

Raising awareness about restorative justice opportunities to those victims and survivors who may be interested in participating.

Enhancing communication and messaging about restorative justice: definitions and addressing myths

Many participants indicated a current lack of appropriate information available to the public about restorative justice, which contributes to skepticism of restorative justice programs. Participants indicated a need for a clear definition of restorative justice. As many participants indicated, restorative justice as a concept can have different meanings from program to program.^{Footnote 5} As restorative justice programs can be different, participants suggested that common principles and concepts should be included in communication and messaging surrounding restorative justice. Many participants raised the concept of standardization to improve clarity of communication and create more consistency in messaging. In addition, participants suggested that messaging should identify restorative programs at different levels (e.g., federal programs versus community level initiatives). For example, participants recommended that officials enhance communications surrounding federal programs like CSC's Restorative Opportunities program.

Public education

For victims and survivors to participate in restorative justice, participants stressed the importance of victims being well informed. Participants suggested employing public education campaigns to ensure accurate information is delivered to the public, and that victims are informed of their right to information on restorative justice. Like other forms of information dissemination, public education surrounding restorative justice should be provided in a variety of mediums (e.g., infographics, fact sheets, social media, videos). In addition, all information should be accessible through digital or print-copies.

Network building

Participants noted that restorative justice initiatives operate both within and apart from the formal criminal justice system. Stakeholders suggested that the creation of collaborative networks would ensure that clear and accurate information is provided. Further, stakeholders suggested that there should be coordination among all justice partners to provide information on restorative justice. Networks should not only include those working directly with victims and survivors but those working within the broader community (e.g., schools, hospitals, social services). In creating networks, participants noted that it would be an opportunity for creating multiple points in time and through different avenues when information about restorative justice programs could be presented to victims and survivors.

Research

Participants raised the importance of knowing who participates in restorative justice. More research should be dedicated to understanding populations and/or demographics of those that participate in the restorative justice process. Stakeholders raised the importance of examining and understanding the needs of those who participate in the restorative justice process. Participants suggested conducting qualitative research on the experiences of those who participated in restorative justice.

Funding and training

Participants emphasized the importance of facilitators having proper training to effectively support victims through the process, as well as providing follow-up support. Stakeholders recognized the importance of staffing positions with facilitators that have been appropriately trained on the subject matter and are prepared to work with victims and survivors of crime. Restorative Justice facilitators should also demonstrate a high degree of cultural competence that includes awareness of different cultures and faiths in order to provide services that are respectful and compassionate. Participants emphasized the importance of removing cultural barriers when accessing services. Stakeholders suggested that sustained funding should be implemented for continuous development and training of restorative justice staff. Participants also stated that those with lived experiences, who bring a diverse lens should be included in facilitation of programs and the creation and review of program policy.

Day two

Session 1: Accessibility of information

Improving public education about victims' rights and services available to the federal corrections and parole system

Access and accessibility

Participants noted the importance of making information and resources on rights and services in the federal corrections and parole systems easily accessible to the public. Participants stressed the importance of having access to information and having that information accessible.^{Footnote 6} Stakeholders cited considerations should be made for individuals and communities that do not have equitable access to broadband services or adaptive technologies.

In the development of information products and policy, stakeholders proposed that the Government ensure that key stakeholders representing different disabilities and cultural communities should be consulted and included in broader policy discussions (rather than just at disability-only discussions) and are involved in the decision-making process.

Presentation of information

Stakeholders raised that all materials, in print or digital formats, should be more accessible to persons with disabilities. Many participants noted that information is not always readily and easily accessible. Participants suggested that published information should not contain jargon, idioms, abbreviations, and hard words.^{Footnote 7} Published information should be short, clear and use plain language. Participants suggested simplifying complex information and explaining it with examples. Some participants also suggested using text that is easily supported by pictures or images. Many participants suggested that all published material should be compatible with adaptive technology.

Participants raised the importance of having appropriate contact information listed. Further, stakeholders noted that having a contact telephone number is often the most useful to people who may encounter challenges with the interpretation of information. Things that may be difficult to communicate and/or explain in writing can often be made clear over the phone.

Webtools and design

To improve public education on victims' rights and the corrections and conditional release systems, participants stated that the Government should act as a leader in the development of online information that is accessible. Participants noted that the physical layout of webpages is important. For easy navigation, webpages should have clear headers and descriptive titles for links. Using descriptive titles for links makes it easier for those using screen readers to navigate websites and understand the purposes of the links that they will be redirected to. Some participants also suggested presenting information through decision trees, pathways, or logic models that offer clear and concise information.^{Footnote 8} Participants suggested that all images on websites should have alt tags that include description of the image. Stakeholders also noted that online forms should be formatted for accessibility (e.g., descriptive titles so those with visual impairments can accurately fill them without difficulty).

Information dissemination: public education and dissemination of information

Participants emphasized that currently there are gaps in knowledge and awareness of victims' rights and services in the federal correction and parole systems. Stakeholders proposed the launch of educational initiatives. For example, such initiatives should include a national public education campaign including television, radio, social media, and public transportation advertisements to inform Canadians of their rights as victims of crime. Many participants expressed a need for education campaigns to focus on the right to information. The need for information is one of the most common needs expressed by victims and survivors, as it strengthens and empowers victims by providing a sense of control and reduces feelings of uncertainty. As participants noted, information is essential because without it victims may not be able to access services to address their needs.

Training

Stakeholders noted that it is important for the Federal Government to ensure that personnel have the knowledge and expertise to properly serve communities. Personnel should be provided with the appropriate training and development related to accessibility and inclusivity as it relates to the creation and dissemination of information. The accessibility of information can be addressed by hiring experts who can assess information products that are created. Ideally, both individuals and communities, with lived experience and expertise would be involved.

Funding and research

Stakeholders emphasized the importance of sustainable funding for research and information product design. In general, participants agreed that there should be an increase in funding for specialized personnel to design, review and publish information products for victims and survivors of crime. In addition, participants emphasized the need for financial support for conducting and sharing research on best practices to address accessibility and barrier removal. This would include the collection of data to gain a better understanding of current challenges faced by underrepresented and underserved communities.

Networks

Participants stressed the importance of seeking, establishing, and maintaining strong, positive partnerships with departments, agencies, and organizations to improve information sharing and to help victims and survivors build rapport with local service providers, law enforcement and justice officials. To improve access to and dissemination of information, partners suggested cultivating collaborative partnerships with those who serve within the field of victim services but also those outside of it (e.g., doctors, nurses, educators, social workers). As participants noted, the creation of multidisciplinary partnerships creates opportunities to communicate, problem-solve, develop, and share information.

Moving forward to understanding victim needs in corrections and conditional release

Following focused roundtable discussions, participants had an opportunity to participate in a "Blue Sky Discussion", which was an opportunity for NOV to hear from stakeholders as they shared their thoughts, reflections and ideas on the corrections and conditional release system more broadly. It was an opportunity to gain insight and learn from the knowledge and experiences of all participants. Key highlights from the Blue Sky discussions included calls for developing and maintaining comprehensive directories of resources^{Footnote 9}; streamlining and enhancing communications tools and resources; expanding funding opportunities; and building collaborative networks and relationships for greater public awareness.

Streamlining and enhancing communications tools was a central theme during the Blue Sky discussions. Participants raised the idea of developing a comprehensive resource designed to highlight the most essential information and guidance to victims of crime. Stakeholders suggested the development of an amalgamated resource set (also referred to as a multi-subject reference guide, one-stop shop or toolkit) that could be presented in a user-friendly, single source, multi-format package.

Building collaborative networks and relationships was emphasized among participants as fostering partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including community organizations and individuals can be used to leverage a wide range of resources and expertise. For example, some participants proposed public education campaigns that communicate messages from a high-profile individuals like community leaders, local celebrities, and athletes. This collaborative approach would not only amplify the reach and impact of campaigns but also ensure that messages are culturally relevant and resonate with various audiences. Through mutual support and shared goals, collaboration and networks can drive more effective and sustainable outcomes in public education and awareness efforts.

As detailed from the summarized discussions, participants provided a number of suggestions for improving the corrections and conditional release system; building awareness; sharing information; and meeting the needs of victims of crime. Recommendations that fall outside the scope of NOV's mandate will be shared with appropriate agencies or departments. Those recommendations applicable to the NOV and its Portfolio partners will be analyzed and those deemed feasible, will be further explored.

Appendix A: Public Safety portfolio victim services

Mandates

National Office for Victims

Public Safety Canada's National Office for Victims (NOV) was established in 2005 to ensure that victims' perspectives would be considered in the development of federal correctional policy; to act as a central resource that offers information to victims about federal corrections and conditional release; and to promote services offered by CSC and PBC. The NOV plays an important coordination function in the PS Portfolio with a focus on working with victims of offenders who have been sentenced to two years or more in federal custody, service providers and the general public. The NOV produces information products for victims of federal offenders, hosts annual roundtables to engage with stakeholders, and conducts outreach activities (e.g., targeted mailing of information materials and social media outreach).

Correctional Service Canada's National Victim Services Program

Correctional Service Canada's (CSC) Victim Services provides victims with case-specific, protected information in accordance with section 26 of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, general information about CSC operations and invites victims and survivors to provide victim statements for consideration in offender case management decisions. In addition, the CSC's Victim Services liaises with provincial and territorial jurisdictions to improve information exchange and conducts outreach to inform victims and victim-serving organizations about their rights and the services provided by CSC.

Parole Board of Canada's services for victims

The Parole Board of Canada (PBC) is an independent, administrative tribunal that makes conditional release decisions for offenders in federal custody and provincial offenders (i.e., less than 2 years in custody) in all provinces except Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Like CSC, victims who register with the PBC are entitled to obtain information about the offender who harmed them (see section 142 of the CCRA). The information provided by PBC is primarily related to scheduling upcoming parole reviews and providing victims with the outcome and conditions of parole decisions and is received by mail, fax, phone, or through the secure Victims Portal. Victims may provide a written victim statement at any time for consideration in the case management and risk assessment of the offender. Members of the public, including victims and their supports, can apply to observe the hearing and may choose to present their statement at the hearing. The victim may also designate a support person who will attend the hearing with them to read the statement on their behalf. Whether or not they attend the hearing, victims may also request a copy of the written PBC decision and/or request to listen to an audio recording of the offender's hearing. This contributes to public understanding of conditional release decision making and promotes openness and accountability.

Appendix B: Presentation summaries

Day 1: Presentations

On Day One of the roundtable Public Safety Portfolio partners who collaborate to serve victims of federal offenders provided a presentation to stakeholders that included an overview of their team's mandate and responsibilities and summarized "What's New" including updates on projects and policy.

National Office for Victims: What's new

The NOV organizes National Victims' Roundtables to support the implementation of the CVBR. This Roundtable was the fifth since the coming into force of the CVBR.^{Footnote 10} Since the last roundtable held in March 2020, NOV, along with its Portfolio partners, have reviewed the suggestions received at all previous roundtables in the context of future policy development. From previous stakeholder feedback received, it has been reinforced that information is the key to victims being able to exercise their CVBR rights. In 2021, NOV released a Sentence Calculation booklet, and five accompanying fact sheets meant to assist victims in understanding how sentences and parole eligibility are calculated for several types of sentences. The NOV continues to develop new products in response to stakeholder feedback. In Fall 2022, the NOV's Victims of Crime: Staying Informed booklet was updated, and an additional language was released. With the addition of Atikamekw, the Staying Informed booklet is now available in 21 languages, including eight of the most spoken Indigenous languages in Canada. In addition, booklets now include QR Codes linking to digital versions, so they are more easily accessible to all Canadians.

Correctional Service Canada: What's new

In 2020-2021, CSC created a National Task team on Victim Engagement to strengthen considerations of victim concerns in case management. The CSC has continued building on its communications and outreach strategy launched in 2019. This included the release of new infographics, videos, and social media posts. In 2021, there were updates made to the Correctional Plan Progress Report template and accompanying Guide for Victims. There are currently updates underway to CSC's notification templates, protocols, and policies. Since 2020, the CSC has also been proactive with sharing aggregated victim-related data with partners and stakeholders, in addition to holding regular and focused meetings with Provincial and Territorial Victim Services, Family Information Liaison Units, and Prosecution Services to strengthen continuity of services for victims.

Parole Board of Canada: What's new

In June 2016, several victim amendments to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, in support of the CVBR rights. One of these amendments permits victims to access audio recordings of Parole Board hearings whether or not they attended. Since then, the PBC has continued to expand options for victims and survivors of crime. During the COVID-19 pandemic when there was limited access to correctional institutions, the PBC had to primarily hold all conditional release hearings by videoconference or by teleconference. During the first year of the pandemic, with video and teleconferencing, victim participation increased by 14% in the first year and 11% in the second year. Video conferencing and teleconferencing capabilities introduced more options and flexibility for victims who want to participate in the conditional release process. Moving forward, the PBC may be exploring the option of making hybrid hearings (i.e., video conferencing/teleconferencing) available to victims. Additionally, in providing additional options, victims and survivors are now able to submit audio or video recordings of their statements. They also have the option of submitting a recording for a file review.

Public Safety Canada: Federal Framework to Reduce Recidivism

The Reduction of Recidivism Framework Act, which received Royal Assent on June 29, 2021, required the Federal Government to develop a Federal Framework to Reduce Recidivism. The Act called for consultations with diverse stakeholders in the criminal justice sector, including the provinces and territories. Consultations were held from November 2021 to February 2022. In addition to consultations, Public Safety Canada commissioned a research paper on international best practices, which provided a comprehensive review of international approaches for reducing recidivism. From research and consultations, five priority themes were identified in areas that are important to the successful reintegration of individuals. The identified themes include, housing; employment; education; health; and positive support networks. Additionally, consultations also identified several barriers and challenges under each of the identified pillars that impede successful reintegration of offenders into the community. Examples of identified barriers include, homelessness; financial limitations; access to training; educational attainment; literacy skills; risk factors upon release; and isolation. Following the presentation roundtable participants were given the opportunity to provide feedback and considerations from a victim's perspective.

Day 2: Presentations

Department of Justice Canada: Facilitating victims involvement in restorative justice

Between January and February 2022, the Department of Justice Canada conducted an online survey on facilitating victims' involvement in restorative justice. Respondents for the survey consisted of representatives of Federal/Provincial/Territorial governments who work with victims of crime and who fund, support or implement restorative justice programs. The survey focused on six key themes, including: 1) raising awareness among victims of crime; 2) raising awareness among professionals; 3) key messages; 4) engagement and partnerships; 5) research; policies, regulations, procedures and protocols; and 6) tools, documents and resources. General results indicated that raising awareness among victims and representatives could be enhanced through public education presentations, trainings, availability of online resources and collaboration with partners to promote restorative justice and its uses. Survey results also identified key challenges related to restorative justice opportunities. Examples included: lack of a victim-centered approach; jurisdictional limitations; pandemic restrictions; personal biases; and lack of confidence in restorative justice. Following the presentation, roundtable participants were provided the opportunity to provide feedback on how the Government of Canada can raise awareness about restorative justice.

National Office for Victims: Accessibility of information for victims of crime

During previous National Victim's Roundtable discussions (2016-2020), NOV heard that stakeholders desired more information products explaining victims' CVBR rights and how to exercise them. In addition, participants recommended that a "one-stop online shop" be created to amalgamate all relevant information about the criminal justice system onto a single website. In response, between 2020-2022, NOV created new information products that illustrate how victims' rights are upheld within the federal corrections and parole system. For these interactive fact sheets (i.e., Right to Information, Right to Participation, and Right to Protection) NOV has worked diligently to ensure that new standards for accessibility were followed (e.g., no jargon, complex sentences, or acronyms). In addition, partners, stakeholders, and victims were consulted. As NOV is continuously working to improve its approach for sharing information, participants of the roundtable were given the opportunity to provide additional feedback on the fact sheets.

Date modified:

2025-03-05