Susan
Willson
What are restorative practices (RP)?
A framework for interacting that prioritizes relationships and connectivity, so all members of a given community feel valued, have voice and take responsibility for their engagement.
How do restorative practices work?
RP brings those involved in a conflict or wrongdoing together in a small group, (or circle) to share their experience and to gain an understanding of what others are experiencing. The interactions are guided by a series of scripted questions, addressing how each individual has been impacted and what they need to make things right. Participants draft an agreement that guides their engagement within the circle. They agree to give each other space to speak without interruption and in turn, while listening to one another with respect and intention. Circles are inclusive and equitable in design. With the facilitator sitting in the circle, there is no head of the table.
What can Together Works Consulting do with and for you?
The Together Works approach is inclusive and nonjudgmental. We enter your organization or community as the experts in restorative practices, while relying on your expertise about your own organizational culture and the specifics of any given conflict.
By agreeing to participate in restorative practices, you commit to participating in intentional conversations to hear from each other, to understand and give voice to how decisions impact each other, and to know that when harm and or conflict occur, you will come together to voice your experiences and listen to gain an understanding of others. Harm or wrongdoing will be viewed within the context of how relationships are impacted.
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Depending on your needs and the situation you wish to address, we may facilitate restorative dialogues or bring people together through circles that are proactive -- community building, planning, collaborative decision making, and/or reactive/reintegrative -- responding to wrongdoing and repairing harm.
Proactive Circles, or “Check-ins”
Check-in circles support connection and inclusive decision-making by providing opportunities for leadership to seek input on projects or plans from those who are involved and impacted. These are community-building conversations in which participants respond to open-ended questions about their daily experiences. For example: what is the most challenging part of your project, how does the change in direction on this project impact your day, what do you need to feel supported as you work with this client.
Reactive/Reintegrative Circles
In these circles we seek to restore trust when harm or conflict have occurred. The facilitator identifies the individuals who have been directly impacted and meets with each person to understand how they have been harmed. The facilitator then guides the group in the circle conversation. The questions support participants to respond honestly, knowing that the circle is for sharing experiences, not to defend oneself or place blame. As the group moves forward, the shared understanding of one another builds connection and supports a relational culture for future collaboration.
Ongoing Support
We believe all individuals, families and organizations can benefit from restorative practices. Once you have experienced them with us, we can provide long-term consultation and support as you integrate these practices into your organizational structure and routine.