What Is Mediation?

The principles of mediation can be applied to a variety of contexts

Mediation is a method of dispute resolution that enables people involved in conflict to reach a mutually acceptable agreement with the help of a neutral third party mediator. Many types of disputes can be settled in a prompt, confidential and inexpensive manner without going to court. With the mediator’s help people can identify their needs, clarify issues, explore solutions and reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

Mediation is the opportunity to explore issues that are difficult to resolve in a safe space where the mediator is neutral. The process facilitates a positive outcome for all parties, no longer does there need to be a right & wrong; a winner and a loser now there can be resolution that meets everyone’s needs.

To achieve this there are four core principles of mediation:-

Impartiality

Independence

Confidentiality

Voluntary i.e. With consent of all parties

The principles of mediation can be applied to a variety of contexts for example:

Personal conflict: e.g. between neighbours, within families, and within communities

Organisational conflict: e.g. in the workplace, between organisations or groups

Public conflict: i.e. involving public bodies e.g. education, planning, health authorities

Restorative Justice: e.g. individual victim/offender mediation, antisocial behaviour, offending individuals and their community.

Peer mediation: e.g. training young people to use mediation skills with their peer group

By using mediation many types of disputes can be settled in a prompt, confidential and inexpensive manner without going to court.