In this episode of Right From Wrong, I'm taking you on an incredibly personal journey alongside someone who has been instrumental in my path to redemption: Wendy, my probation officer from all those years ago. When my life was at its lowest point, Wendy stepped in to help me navigate the complexities of probation, the court system, and, most importantly, myself.

We'll be diving deep into the transformative period when I first met Wendy—shy, confused, and absolutely terrified—right through to the moment I decided to take part in restorative justice. Wendy's unwavering support, insight, and persistence have been pivotal in my journey from punishment to accountability and ultimately, to redemption.

We'll explore how Wendy played a critical role not just in keeping tabs on me during probation but in pushing me toward opportunities that fostered my growth. From suffering the bewilderment of pre-sentencing to facing the raw emotions of communicating with my victim's parents, every step was crucial, and Wendy was there through it all.

This episode is particularly special because it showcases the power of compassionate guidance and the ripple effect it can have on someone's life, emphasizing the human side of the justice system. Wendy and I reflect on those dark, uncertain times and celebrate the milestones that have shaped my life today.

Tune in to hear Wendy's perspective on how restorative justice can change lives and the emotional conversations that underpin the essence of true accountability. Whether you're curious about restorative justice, interested in stories of redemption, or simply in need of a bit of hope, this episode has something to offer.

Key Moments

00:01:43 Meeting Wendy – A Lifeline in a Dark Time. I introduce Wendy, my probation officer, and share how I was first connected with her through a family friend who was concerned about my wellbeing.

00:02:52 Wendy’s First Impressions of Me. Wendy recalls meeting me for the first time—quiet, withdrawn, and completely overwhelmed. She tried to explain the court process to me while I struggled to take it all in.

00:04:18 Pre-Sentencing Recommendations. Wendy explains why she recommended a minimal custodial sentence to the judge, believing that my age and personal circumstances should be considered in my rehabilitation.

00:05:40 How Prison Changed Me. Wendy reflects on the transformation she saw in me six months into my sentence—how I hardened up to survive the environment and the impact that had on my mindset.

00:06:57 Being Released on New Year’s Eve. Wendy shares her concerns about my release date falling on New Year’s Eve—worrying that I might celebrate the wrong way and fall straight back into old habits.

00:07:41 Struggling to Find Stability After Prison. Wendy and I discuss the harsh reality of life after release—how difficult it was to find stable housing and how she stepped in to try and help me get back on my feet.

00:10:00 Respect in the Wrong Context. I talk about the so-called "respect" I received when I got out—how some people in my neighbourhood saw me as someone to be admired for going to prison, rather than seeing the harm I had caused.

00:11:00 Wendy’s Support and Concern for Me. Wendy explains how vulnerable people are when they come out of prison and why stability is so important. She also shares how she tried to guide me through this difficult transition.

00:12:02 My Introduction to Restorative Justice. Wendy remembers getting the initial call about restorative justice and admits she didn’t know much about it at the time—until my case made it clear how powerful it could be.

00:14:00 Hearing David and Joan’s Letter for the First Time. Wendy describes the emotional moment when we sat down to listen to the letter from my victim’s parents—a moment that changed everything for me and forced me to confront the full weight of what I had done.

00:16:02 My Restorative Justice Journey. I share how engaging with restorative justice helped me truly understand the harm I had caused and why hearing directly from my victim’s family was one of the most difficult but transformative moments of my life.

00:18:02 Restorative Justice in Action. Wendy reflects on how her view of restorative justice has changed since working on my case and gives updates on how it’s now being implemented in Nottingham.

00:19:42 Seeing Our Story on Stage – Reflections on “Punch.” Wendy and I talk about the surreal experience of watching my story being brought to life in the play Punch, and how it has helped spark deeper conversations about justice and redemption.

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