Very often the perpetrators of what is termed “low-level crime” do not think of the human cost of their actions.

Stealing from out-buildings, vandalism, graffiti, anti-social behaviour – these might not be considered extremely serious crimes in the scheme of things, but each and every one of them has some kind of effect on someone. There is no crime which is truly victimless.

In the past, when those responsible for these misdemeanours have been brought to justice, they have often been fined, given suspended sentences or forced to carry out community service punishments.

All of which is well and good, but does little to address the suffering of the victim of their particular crime. However, in recent times neighbourhood resolution panels have proved highly effective in bringing closure to those affected by such behaviour.

Being able to confront the criminal in a secure and safe environment often means that the victim can get some satisfaction with regards to the criminal’s motives and whether they are truly sorry for what they have done.

And it works the other way, too – of the offenders who have been through such resolution panels, 97 per cent have not re-offended, suggesting that being shown the human cost of their behaviour makes them think about what they have done.

The neighbourhood resolution scheme has proved so successful that Bradford is to get a Ministry of Justice grant to allow the scheme to continue, with money also going to victim support services in the district.

Anything that makes offenders face up to their actions and gives some satisfaction and assistance to victims can only be a good thing in the long run.