About this Event
About the Event
“One life has been wasted, because of this. Senseless, no reason at all. So where's the sense in wasting another?”
We’re delighted to announce an event on 11th March with Lynn Burns and Jacob Dunne, whose inspirational story became the 5* play ‘Punch’.
Based on real events and adapted from Jacob Dunne’s book Right From Wrong, the play centres on a single, impulsive act – a punch thrown on a night out by a young man that led to the death of another. What followed was something extraordinary: a process of Restorative Justice, initiated by the victim’s parents, that brought them face to face with the man responsible for their son’s death.
CJS Chief Executive Karyn McCluskey: “Lynn is one of the most thoughtful, compassionate, and quietly determined human beings I’ve ever had the privilege to work alongside. Her integrity, her grace, and her unwavering commitment to making things better for others remind us all what true public service looks like. Scotland is fortunate to have her.”
At The Power of Dialogue: Human Stories of Restorative Justice we will explore the impact of harm, the power of dialogue, and what becomes possible when justice prioritises accountability, understanding, and meaningful repair.
A film of the event will be available on YouTube shortly afterwards.
Speakers
Jacob Dunne and Lynn Burns
What to Expect
- A discussion on harm, impact, and repair
- Viewing of selected filmed excerpts from the critically acclaimed play Punch, based on Jacob Dunne’s story
- A panel of voices including practitioners and people affected by harm
- Audience Q&A
- A welcoming and reflective space for shared learning
- Doors open at 13:30 for arrivals and refreshments
- The discussion will begin promptly at 14:00 and conclude at 16:00
Venue Information
Hawthornden Lecture Theatre at the National Galleries of Scotland
The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL
Travel
5 minutes’ walk from Waverley Station
1 minute from Princes Street Tram stop
The venue is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport
Accessibility & Dietary Requirements
We want to ensure the event is accessible and comfortable for all attendees.
When completing your registration, please let us know about any accessibility and dietary (for arrival refreshments) requirements.
Filming Notice
This event will be professionally filmed to support future learning and the promotion of restorative justice. If you would prefer not to appear on camera, please speak to a member of the Community Justice Scotland (CJS) team when you arrive. We will ensure that suitable arrangements are made to respect your privacy and accommodate your request.
Who Should Attend?
This event is ideal for:
Professionals and Policymakers in justice, education, community safety, or social care
Practitioners interested in trauma‑informed and relational approaches
Community members and students
Anyone curious about restorative justice and human‑centred approaches to harm
Tickets
This is a free event, but places are limited.
Please register early to secure your space.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Hawthornden Lecture Theatre, The National Galleries of Scotland, The Mound, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
USD 0.00
