A former primary school teacher helped a woman she recognised from a viral video of the Southport riots turn her life around through restorative justice. Stacey Vint, 34, was filmed falling flat on her face while pushing a burning wheelie bin towards police in Middlesbrough. The clip spread widely online, and Vint later pleaded guilty to violent disorder, receiving a 20-month prison sentence.
Retired teacher Satti Collins recognised Vint as a former pupil and contacted probation services to reach her. Through the Safer Communities restorative justice programme, they met. Vint, a mother of five, had struggled with addiction since age 13, using cocaine and alcohol after her grandmother's death. On the day of the unrest, she had been awake for days and was caught up in the crowd.
In prison, Vint stopped using drugs and alcohol, and began reflecting on her actions. 'People were frightened in their homes. Cars smashed up. Windows boarded,' she said. The restorative justice process allowed her to understand the impact of her behaviour. Collins said, 'She is brave and honest, and she has worked so hard to turn her life around.'
Since her release, Vint has remained abstinent, living in supported accommodation and rebuilding relationships with her children. She and Collins now speak publicly about their experience, addressing schools and police officers. Vint's 10-year-old son told her he was proud of her, which she called 'really emotional.'
