What We Do

Mediation

Our mediation service supports the Department of Cultural Affairs and Her Majesty’s Courts Service in their intention to raise awareness and the availability of mediation as an alternative to court and responds to the Department’s Proportionate Dispute Resolution Strategy.

We are accredited, professional, indemnified and experienced. We offer a specialist mediation service in the social and healthcare field. We understand the business and can offer a confidential cost effective alternative to litigation, and to grievance and disciplinary procedures, which enhances working relationships and resolves workplace and contractual disputes effectively.

What is Mediation?

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a process whereby a dispute between individuals or groups of people is resolved with the assistance of a trained mediator. Mediators are specially trained professionals who mediate according to nationally agreed standards, guidelines and a code of practice. Mediators are impartial and their sole aim is to improve communication so that agreement can be reached. All negotiations are handled with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.

The Mediation Process

Before the process begins both parties provide a brief overview of the dispute in complete confidence. No information is passed to the other party without permission. The process starts with both parties outlining the dispute. The mediator then works with both parties privately to establish the issues and a route to resolution. The mediator assists in developing and writing down an agreement so that it is acceptable to both parties. The agreement belongs to the parties and is without prejudice to any subsequent litigation.

Some Questions

What does it cost? Litigation costs can spiral but mediation costs are agreed beforehand and divided between the parties except for workplace mediation where the employer pays all the costs

How long does it take? This is agreed between the parties and the mediator at the outset and is usually around 3 days

Can I bring a friend? Yes, supporters are welcome but bound by very strict confidentiality

Can I bring a union representative or a lawyer? Yes, so long as all parties are in agreement to this

What happens afterwards? If the dispute is resolved an agreement is drawn up and the issue is closed; if the dispute remains unresolved a document can be prepared setting out the agreement so far and what issues are still outstanding.