Through the SYCAMORE TREE PROJECT, we teach on the principles of Restorative Justice and through group work we build positive and sustainable support. This is a structured but accessible learning programme delivered through weekly group sessions, supported by workbooks and facilitated discussion. Each session builds on the last, helping participants move from understanding harm, to taking responsibility, to thinking about forgiveness, repair, and what they want to do next in their lives. The programme looks at how harm affects not only the person who was hurt, but also families, communities, and the person who caused it. Participants are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences, the choices they have made, and how those choices have impacted others. 

The learning is practical and reflective rather than academic. Sessions include group discussion, creative exercises, personal reflection, and activities that help participants think about how they might make things right, even when direct repair is not possible. This could include writing, drawing, or planning symbolic acts of restitution. The aim is to help people engage honestly with their past while feeling supported to move forward. 

This programme is part of Release’s wider restorative justice work in prisons and communities across Ireland. 

All who partake in the course are impacted by the transforming course contents.