This manual outlines the trauma-informed restorative justice protocols and procedures adopted by the Connecticut Youth Services Association for Youth Diversion Teams. It is designed to support fidelity to best practices by providing clear expectations and structures that equip diversion staff and volunteers to guide youth in taking responsibility, repairing harm, and fostering healing for all those affected.

These frameworks also help create conditions that support youth in developing insight, building relational skills, and growing in ways that reduce the likelihood of future harm. The manual supports a meaningful alternative for youth who cause harm, diverting them from formal involvement in the juvenile justice system. 

Table of Contents

1. 1. Program Introduction and Foundational Standards
   2. Foundational Concepts in Restorative and Trauma-Informed Diversion
   3. Conversation Frameworks for Accountability & Repair
   4. Referral & Eligibility Requirements for Diversion
   5. The Intake Process
   6. Restorative Meeting Preparation
   7. Guidelines for Conducting the Restorative Meeting
   8. Developing the Restorative Agreement
   9. Post-Diversion Meeting
   10. Administrative Duties
   11. Case Management, Legal Distinctions, and Ethical Protocols
   12. Program Visibility and Messaging
   13. Appendices with Additional Information and Resources