What are Restorative Practices?

“Restorative Practices” is a broad term but it generally refers to a set of approaches for building and maintaining community through a deep commitment to trusting relationships. The practices can be used for proactively for community building and creative problem solving, and when needed to address serious harm or conflict.

But the work of implementing these practices begins with a mindset shift. When people and organizations make this shift in disposition, they – 

  • slow down to take time for building trust and healthy relationships
  • appreciate everyone for their unique gifts and experiences
  • create inclusive spaces where everyone can bring their authentic selves
  • tend to all aspects of well-being: body, mind, heart, and spirit
  • shift from “power over” to “power with” approaches
  • pay attention to process because “you can’t get to a good place in a bad way”

How can restorative practices benefit my organization?

  • cultivate trusting relationships
  • increase job satisfaction
  • reduce staff burnout and attrition
  • decrease interpersonal conflicts
  • save expenses from hiring and training new staff