The Community Conferencing Process


INTRODUCTION

The facilitator introduces participants and sets the focus of the conference. Ground rules are reviewed.

THE OFFENDER’S STORY

The facilitator asks the offender to talk about what happened and how people have been affected.

OFFENDER SUPPORTERS

The facilitator asks the offender supporters to talk about how they have been affected.

THE COMMUNITY/VICTIM’S STORY

The facilitator asks the community members/victims to explain how they have been affected, whether directly or indirectly. The impact of the crime on the neighborhood is discussed.

VICTIM SUPPORTERS

If there is a direct victim, the facilitator asks the victim supporters to discuss how they have been affected.

THE AGREEMENT PHASE

The victims are asked what they would like the outcome to be. The offender is asked for his/her input on the agreement. The facilitator assists the group in specifying the details of the agreement, and checks each item with the group.

CLOSE

When the facilitator senses that there is consensus among the group, he/she verifies the terms of the agreement and asks for any additional comments.

REINTEGRATION

The facilitator prepares the written agreement for signatures, allowing participants to interact informally while having refreshments.

FOLLOW-UP (OPTIONAL)

The entire group meets again at a later date if and when the agreement is completed to celebrate the success of the conference.