The Pocket Guide to Restorative Justice

'Restorative justice… puts the emphasis on repairing the harm caused, holding offenders to account before their victims… It is not a soft option. It is tough for an offender to continue denying the consequences of their actions when they sit across the table from their victim. This explains why restorative justice is effective in cutting re-offending. Such face-to-face meetings… can also help the victim.'

- Cherie Booth QC

This pocket-sized guide can be taken conveniently to meetings, interviews and visits, to be used as a quick reference point for information about the practical application of restorative justice.

The book covers every stage of the process, from how a facilitator should prepare for taking on a new case, through initial contacts with victim and offender and facilitating meetings, to recording and evaluating a case. While acknowledging throughout the different possible ways of proceeding, the authors provide example prompts for steps such as writing to a victim for the first time, talking to the victim and offender ahead of their meeting, and initiating meetings. They use jargon-free language and provide helpful task checklists for speed and ease of reference.

This is an invaluable companion for youth offending team workers, probation officers, prison staff, police, referral order volunteers, mediators and any professional needing to know about restorative justice.