What is the Restorative Conversation and Process Service?

What is the Restorative Conversation and Process Service?

Our restorative conversation and process service is responsive and trauma-sensitive to enable survivors to engage with the individual(s) who perpetrated harm against them. The purpose of this is to provide a safe space for constructive dialogue for a survivor to ask questions such as ‘Why me’. This can be direct (e.g. in-person meeting) or indirect (e.g. a letter) This will be supported by two fully trained facilitators and include preparation and access to a wraparound support team during the entire process.

How do I know if this is a service for me - why should I refer?

If you are thinking of having some form of contact with the person who perpetrated harm against you, our service can have initial conversations with you about what restorative justice is, how a process works, and if it would be safe and appropriate. If it's safe and you decide to take part, our facilitators will co-design a process that is led by and centred around the survivor.

How do I make a referral to the restorative conversation and process service?

We are currently taking referrals through two pathways on our website, one is through self-referral and the other is through a supporting organisation.

After I refer to the restorative conversation and process service, what will happen next?

Our restorative justice coordinator will be in touch promptly to follow up with initial discussions to gather an understanding of you as an individual. This discussion will cover essential information including demographics, an understanding of the offense, a general check-in on wellbeing to provide necessary support whilst engaging with us, and a space to discuss motivations, expectations, and concerns.

If I referred to the restorative conversation and process service and changed my mind, is that okay?

Yes. This service is completely voluntary and you are able to withdraw at any time.

Restorative cafe consultation and awareness sessions

We will be conducting a series of restorative cafe consultation and awareness sessions to ensure partner organisations have a say in the implementation of restorative approaches across Scotland. These events will inform the work we are doing and be used to shape the development of our national–local partnership model that has been successfully designed and tested within Midlothian Community Justice.

Please get in touch with rachael.moss@thrivingsurvivors.co.uk for more information.