What is mediation or conflict resolution?

We use an independent mediation service. Mediation is a process in which a neutral and independent trained person helps people in dispute work out an agreement.

Conflict resolution is a service available to a single party to provide support on how to cope and build resilience when in a position of conflict.

If residents do not speak English, the mediators will try to match them with someone who speaks their own language.

The advantages are:

• It can help stop disputes early or prevent escalation, and can also help avoid more serious action being taken, including legal action.
• It can help neighbours understand each other.
• It can provide a speedy solution to disputes.
• It is provided at no cost to those involved in dispute.

Where there is a case that could possibly be resolved through mediation, the officer speaks to both neighbours to get their agreement. Mediation is totally confidential and once it has started, no specific details of the mediation will be shared with housing staff unless you want it to be.