Restorative justice is when someone harmed by a crime has contact with the person responsible for the crime, to try to find a way forward. It can be effective in showing the responsible person the real impact of their actions and it gives the victim or their family the chance to tell the offender how they feel, ask for an apology and get answers to their questions. Disputing neighbours may also be brought together in this way.

'Restorative and mediation facilitators' are needed to help arrange such contacts, which include letters and face-to-face meetings. Volunteers are given support and guidance throughout the process. They may visit victims in their own homes and offenders in probation offices and prisons.

Volunteers must understand and adopt the underpinning values and principles of restorative justice. They must also have excellent organisational and people skills, plus the ability to explore and challenge their own beliefs about working with victims and offenders.