The world's first 'restorative justice postcode' has been revealed - and it's in South East London.
In an unprecedented move to rectify power imbalances and achieve social justice, the Restorative Justice for All International Institute (RJ4All) is spearheading the development of the world's first restorative justice postcode in SE16.
The RJ4All Rotherhithe Community Centre lies at the heart of this transformative and passionate journey.
Serving as a free and accessible hub for community empowerment and cohesion, the centre provides comprehensive solutions to local inequalities, community tensions, antisocial behaviour, and poverty.
Dr Theo Gavrielides, the Founder and Director of the RJ4All, explained: "This ground-breaking project aims to revolutionise power dynamics by redistributing power equally among various entities.
"We do this by collaborating with the local community, national and international stakeholders, field experts, and individual and organisational funders.
"Through the principles of restorative justice - such as power-sharing, equality, dignity, respect, and involvement in decision-making - local services are delivered to foster a sense of empowerment and inclusivity.
"Ultimately, we want the community centre to serve as an international, evidence-based case study.
"We're actively shaping a future where restorative justice is embraced worldwide, paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive society that benefits individuals from all walks of life."
Free and accessible
The RJ4All Rotherhithe Community Centre caters to the needs of 20 to 50 immediate residents and non-local drop-ins every week.
It offers a range of free and accessible services with diverse aims.
Addressing food insecurity is a crucial objective, achieved through the RJ4All Foodbank and Community Fridge, which has benefited more than 1,900 people, with more than 1,000 visits in the past year.
The promotion of health and wellbeing is facilitated by the Community Gym, outdoor cycling and cultural walks, while mental health support is offered through therapy programmes and art-based projects.
Empowering youth is another focus, with a host of youth clubs, mentoring, free fitness training, and volunteer programmes.
Furthermore, the centre fosters a sense of belonging through engaging activities such as mending workshops, gardening sessions, cooking classes, digital drop-ins, and community forums, promoting connection and learning within the community.
Exciting growth
Founded in 2013, RJ4All's initiatives continue to have a far-reaching impact - so it's no surprise that it scooped the Community Award at the regional FSB Awards in March.
Dr Theo Gavrielides said: "As a community-led organisation, we were extremely proud to receive this award - particularly at a time of exciting growth as we celebrate our 10th anniversary and implement our new three-year strategy.
"I am proud to be leading a passionate and dedicated team that is committed to addressing the varied needs of our local community, and carrying out my vision to build the world’s first restorative justice postcode."
John Grounds, non-executive director of the RJ4All Board added: "To see the progress made by the team, delivering globally relevant projects, as well as 'heart of the community' impact, has been inspiring.
"In these challenging times, the new commitment to demonstrating the transformational potential of restorative justice through the first restorative justice postcode, suggests an even more inspiring year ahead of us."
Find out more?
Use your energy, talents and resources to bring inspiration and hope to those who need it.
To apply to become a member of RJ4All and receive regular updates or donate to support RJ4All's impact, see https://www.paypal.com/gb/fundraiser/charity/125844
