Victims of crime are being given the chance to confront their offenders and receive apologies.

This is part of the Restorative Justice initiative highlighted by Cumbria's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, during International Restorative Justice Week from November 11 to 18.

Restorative Justice allows victims to communicate with offenders, providing them with answers to unresolved questions and the opportunity to explain the impact of the crime on their lives.

This communication can take the form of messages, letters, or face-to-face meetings, all facilitated by trained Restorative Justice practitioners.

Mr Allen said: "Victims are often left with so many questions with no one to answer them, and Restorative Justice helps them understand more and think differently about the crime and the harm that the perpetrator has caused.

"Through Restorative Justice, the perpetrators learn about the impact their crime has had on someone, and it helps them to understand the guilt of what they have done wrong.

"They may not realise the sometimes life-changing effects their actions can have on others."

He added that this process is not a "soft option" and is only used when both parties agree.

Dave Bates, manager of Remedi, an organisation that works with victims in Cumbria to facilitate Restorative Justice, said: "The process gives victims an opportunity to communicate and explain how the crime may have impacted upon themselves, their families, and/or communities.

"Feedback we receive from victims who have used the service indicates it plays a big part in helping them to increase confidence, take control, and gain closure from the incident."

Detective Chief Inspector John Graham-Cumming, Cumbria Constabulary, said: "Restorative justice can provide a more holistic method of dealing with a crime and can lead to the prevention of reoffending.

"The process, which centres on victim's wishes, can help people gain answers from the individuals who have committed crimes against them.

"For an offender, this process holds them accountable for their actions as they meet and speak to individuals they have wronged."

If you have been a victim of crime and would like a confidential discussion and more information about Remedi's Restorative Justice, call 07724 847239.

If you wish to report to police, you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police.

You can also phone on 101.

Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.