Police officers across Merseyside are to be instructed in how to support victims to use "restorative justice" under a new training scheme funded by the Police Commissioner.

Officers who participate on a special course will become "ambassadors" as those best trained to explain the practice to victims of crime.

Restorative justice brings together victims harmed by crime or conflict with those responsible.

It holds perpetrators to account for what they have done and helps them take responsibility and make amends.

Deputy Commissioner Cllr Ann O’Byrne said Merseyside Community Rehabilitation Company and Restorative Solutions have been commissioned to deliver a series of new and bespoke training courses to a total of 50 police officers and PCSOs.

The companies will use specialist accredited trainers to help officers gain a deeper understanding of how restorative justice works and the likely outcomes and benefits for victims.

Councillor O’Byrne said: “For victims, meeting the person who has harmed them can be a huge step in moving forward and recovering from that crime.

“This course will ensure officers and PCSOs are better equipped to advise and support victims to decide if restorative justice is the right approach for them and, if so, what type of approach will be of most benefit to help them rebuild their lives."

The programme will cost £27,320 and includes all materials and evaluation reports to assess effectiveness of the training.