Frequently Asked Questions
Does the restorative justice process also work in situations not related to crime, such as a family conflict?
We do work with families in conflict, this would be considered restorative mediation rather than justice. Please read the guidance and eligibility criteria in our updated referral form
What costs are involved for using this service?
No cost, this is a free service. We are funded by the OPCC for Gloucestershire.
Can Restorative Justice be used for any type of crime?
Yes. The only criteria are that both parties consent to the process, and a trained facilitator decides that it is safe to proceed.
Are there rules so that the process is carried out safely and respectfully?
Yes, facilitators will agree the ground rules with each participant. This usually includes using respectful language.
Would only people involved in the conflict be able to attend?
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Can anyone attend if they are emotionally supporting or helping a person in the process to emotionally regulate attend?
Participants can have supporters, however this is managed by facilitators on a case by case basis.
Would both parties get to talk to the facilitator individually for the purpose of assessing this before we have the opportunity to speak to each other about our wishes?
Yes, all parties will meet with facilitators individually first. In this meeting facilitators will explore the restorative process to see if this is something each party would like to engage with. They will then work with each party to prepare them before there is any communication between the participants.
What is the role of a facilitator?
A trained facilitator will oversee the Restorative Justice process. This includes substantive preparation with both parties, who they speak with multiple times in advance of an intervention taking place. In these conversations they prepare the participants for what to expect, and help them to decide what they need from the process. Once both parties have been suitably prepared, and if the facilitator agrees that a further restorative process is safe, the facilitator will oversee a restorative process. For a face to face meeting, this involves the facilitator attending the meeting, and prompting all participants with structured questions which they were prepared for in advance. For indirect communication, such as letter writing, the facilitator would work with both parties on ensuring that they express what they want to say in their letter.
Can I stay anonymous throughout the process?
Confidentiality is taken very seriously in the Restorative Justice process and none of your information will be passed on without your permission. If you wish to stay anonymous, the facilitators can discuss with you ways to make this possible.
Can I communicate with the person who committed the crime without meeting them?
Yes. Restorative processes can be flexible around the needs and preferences of the people taking part. If a face to face meeting is not safe or desirable, communication can be arranged via processes such as letter writing, video shuttles or proxy participants.