What Is Mediation?
Mediation is a process whereby people who are in conflict or in a dispute can sort out their differences with the help of a trained, impartial mediator.
There are essentially six steps to a successful mediation. At all stages, the mediator will assist the parties to define their own interests and needs and understand those of the other parties.
Stage 1
The mediators (DCM always use two mediators) meet each
person separately in their homes or in an agreed location to get the background to the dispute. The mediation can also take place online using Zoom.
Stage 2
There is little or no cost – voluntary contributions are requested. to help support the work of DCM.
Stage 3
The parties meet in a neutral venue or on Zoom with the mediators. Each person tells their story in full and also describes the emotions caused by the dispute.
Stage 4
Each person names the issues that they would like to get resolved at mediation.
Stage 5
Each person in the dispute suggests ideas about how each issue might be resolved (the mediators do not offer advice, suggestions or recommendations – they remain neutral).
Stage 6
If a solution is reached, a verbal or mediated settlement is agreed between the parties and both people leave the room with the dispute behind them.
The role of the mediator is to facilitate communication between the parties in conflict and the process works on the following basic principles...
Confidential
What is discussed in the room, stays in the room. People can feel confident that the discussions are confidential from the first phone call to
the joint meetings.
Voluntary
Mediation is voluntary so people are free to leave the process at any stage.
Impartial
The mediator remains impartial throughout the process, and is non-judgemental and non-directive.
Self-Determined
The people involved make the decisions. They work it out together.
Low Cost
Mediation is far less costly than using legal proceedings, as well as being quicker.