What We Offer
A major focus of our program is the circle process. The concept of circles represent important principles in the Indigenous worldview and belief systems, namely,interconnectedness, equality, and continuity. According to traditional teachings, the seasonal pattern of life and renewal and the movement of animals and people were continuous, like a circle, which has no beginning and no end. Circles suggest inclusiveness and the lack of a hierarchy. Justices Circles are available as part of, or as an alternative to the formal court process that is more inclusive of the needs of the Indigenous communities.
| Conflict-Resolution Circle | This circle creates an opportunity to address conflict within a healing environment before it becomes a criminal activity. It can also prevent conflict that is arising in communities. |
| Early Intervention Circle | Early Intervention Circles are designed for offenders at the pre-charge and post-charge stage of criminal proceedings. The process relies on input from the community and victim to craft recommendations that provide a holistic healing plan for the offender, victim, and community. |
| Healing Circle | This powerful circle supports victims, offenders, and communities who have gone through a crisis and need support recovering. Healing Circles can include a variety of participants such as family, friends, support persons, the victim, and the victim’s support person. |
| Sentencing Circle | This circle is used within a community-based model for justice in the post-charge stage once responsibility has already been acknowledged for the offence. It promotes healing for all parties and provides an opportunity for the offender to make amends. The Sentencing Circle empowers victims, community members, families, and offenders to have shared responsibility in finding constructive resolutions. |
| Reintegration Circle | Ensuring a successful transition, Reintegration Circles are used to assist the individual who is coming out of custody and needs help reintegrating back into the community. |
| Gladue Reports | Gladue Reports tell an individual’s sacred story. The reports go back generations and document the circumstances that may have led to wrongdoing. All Indigenous persons have a right to a Gladue Report and the contents must be considered by the Judge at sentencing, bail, and other proceedings.
Gladue reports will provide information on what services are available in the community and will make recommendations on appropriate programs, processes, or ceremonies. |
| Case Management | Case management services are available, including Gladue Aftercare to facilitate the rehabilitation and cultural healing for Indigenous people living in PEI. |
| In Court Support | Court support is available to help victims and offenders understand the court proceedings and court process. |
| Reintegration Support | Reintegration support services are available to help offenders reentry into society. |
