The objectives of diversion are to—
(a) | deal with a child outside the formal criminal justice system in appropriate cases; |
(b) | encourage the child to be accountable for the harm caused by him or her; |
(c) | meet the particular needs of the individual child; |
(d) | promote the reintegration of the child into his or her family and community; |
(e) | provide an opportunity to those affected by the harm to express their views on its impact on them; |
(f) | encourage the rendering to the victim of some symbolic benefit or the delivery of some object as compensation for the harm; |
(g) | promote reconciliation between the child and the person or community affected by the harm caused by the child; |
(h) | prevent stigmatising the child and prevent the adverse consequences flowing from being subject to the criminal justice system; |
(i) | reduce the potential for re-offending; |
(j) | prevent the child from having a criminal record; and |
(k) | promote the dignity and well-being of the child, and the development of his or her sense of self-worth and ability to contribute to society. |