The restorative justice conference is the meeting where all parties come together and understanding, healing and accountability can occur.
The conference
This is a safe environment to talk openly and honestly about what happened and what harm was caused. The victim and offender may agree a plan of action for the offender to complete to help put things right.
The facilitator will keep the conversation on track. It is important to allow natural, but focussed discussion to occur, that allows for understanding of both parties, nurtures healing, and provides an avenue for accountability.
A facilitator will use many techniques and methods to make a conference have a successful outcome. It is common to have breaks, separate conversations, or pause a conference, to ensure that a conference is safe.
Facilitators will not take sides. They are an impartial party, that will help guide the discussion.
The location of a conference is important. Often a culturally appropriate place is chosen, or a location that is neutral. Locations that are often used are maraes, halls, and meeting rooms. This will be part of the pre-conference discussion.
