Mediation and Conflict Management
Mediation is a method of resolving conflict between parties in an informal way. It is a voluntary process, providing a structure for reaching agreement or 'good enough' outcomes. It is confidential in nature.
I am a trained work–based mediator and a founder member of Kent County Council's Mediation Service. This innovative project was one of the first local authority work–based mediation services to be established in the UK.
I usually work in partnership with another trained mediator. Our aim is to create a confidential space to allow disputing parties to identify their issues and concerns, before finding a way of working together more effectively.
A prime purpose of mediation is often to rebuild a working relationship.
GETTING STARTED
Parties to mediation are provided with a description of the mediation process and the basis on which it is to be conducted. Each party is invited to indicate on a simple form what he or she wants from the mediation. Pre–meetings with each party may be agreed. When we are sure that parties wish to proceed we arrange a date and neutral venue for the mediation to go ahead.
The mediators open the meeting with introductions and ground rules. Parties state their perception of the problems and identify the issues. Mediators work through the issues with the parties and as agreements are reached, these are confirmed with all parties. Mediators may assist in drawing up a written agreement and a review session will be offered some months later.
MY ROLE AS A MEDIATOR
I see my role as being:
- Impartial
- A facilitator of honest and direct communication
- To clarify and share information
- To encourage mutual respect and trust
- To support assertiveness and joint problem solving