Restorative facilitators approach the group with restorative techniques that maximize the ability of people to stick with one another and move effectively towards a satisfactory resolution no matter how angry or hurt they are. Certain issues, disputes or dysfunctional groups might need several circles.
The facilitator works with the client to co-create restorative questions designed to get to the heart of the matter. After establishing basic relational agreements, the facilitator guides the emotions and conflict to stay within those parameters and allocates equitable time among participants. Often after a formal circle, the group cross-talks informally to clarify issues or respond, restoratively, to what was said.
Facilitation is distinct from conferencing, which is a more involved process because of the preparation. See conferencing.
Facilitation and circle keeping are appropriate for:
- Groups who’ve hit an impasse for any reason and need neutral help
Healing — from group trauma, discrimination, death or loss among the group, merged departments, schools or businesses, etc. - Discovery — uncovering the values of each member in order to support improved function of a group
- Conflict discovery process — using a positive lens, work to uncover a conflict’s source
- Focus groups — facilitator captures responses that become an anonymized report back to administration, HR or other client
- Limited, low-level disputes — families, neighborhoods, special education. (Highly charged disputes should go to conference.)
- Project development
- Managing difficult conversations among families, colleagues, neighbors, etc.
