Years ago, Barbara Pensom participated in a restorative justice program within a prison setting, reflecting on its complex impact on both offenders and victims. While acknowledging that the initiative did not always yield the desired outcomes, Pensom observed that when successful, the process required significant courage from all involved and alleviated enduring feelings of guilt and grievance. This, she noted, allowed individuals on both sides to begin moving forward despite the continued reality of serving sentences and coping with the consequences of crime.

Penson also highlighted the role of prison and probation officers, who often approached such initiatives with skepticism. However, some were notably affected by the encounters and became more open to considering alternative approaches to justice. She described the experience as both challenging and spiritually rewarding, suggesting that restorative justice, though not a comprehensive solution, can offer meaningful personal transformation alongside the formal penal process.