A GROUP of volunteers who give up their time to bring restorative justice in cases of low level crime, anti-social behaviour and neighbour disputes have been nominated in the 2015 Community Stars awards.

The project in Bradford has more than 60 volunteers who meet with both parties and act in a neutral manner to attempt to resolve the issues for all sides concerned.

They have been nominated in the volunteer category of the awards, which honour those who make a difference across the district.

Restorative Justice Hub co-ordinator Kate Brooksbank nominated the volunteers.

She said: "Volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and are motivated to help individuals make changes to their lives. Individuals going through the process often feedback that the volunteers should be paid for what they do and what an amazing job they do.

READ MORE ABOUT THE 2015 COMMUNITY STARS AWARDS

"By being neutral and impartial, they are viewed differently to professional and can facilitate better outcomes.

"Given the number of volunteers, we are able to ensure that those with the right skills and experiences are allocated to each case."

The scheme deals with cases such as low level neighbour disputes, low level anti-social behaviour, criminal damage under £300, theft under £100, minor public order offences, and any low level crime which would not be taken to court.

The aim is to give those affected by the crime or incident the opportunity to have a greater voice by asking those responsible any questions they may have, while also explaining the impact the behaviour has had upon their lives.

DOWNLOAD A COMMUNITY STARS 2015 NOMINATION FORM

This also gives the person responsible a greater understanding of the harm they have caused.

The 2015 Community Stars Awards are organised by the Telegraph & Argus and Bradford Council in an effort to ensure unsung heroes across the district are rewarded for their commitment.

Readers are asked to nominate deserving people and organisations in their neighbourhoods before Monday, September 28, so there are under three weeks to go until the deadline. So far there have been more than 40 nominations.

Judges will make a shortlist, before it is back over to Bradfordians to vote for the most deserving winners in the six categories – Volunteer, Good Neighbour, Community Group, Fundraiser, Community Champion, and Young Active Citizen.