Bespoke mediation
What is bespoke mediation?
Bespoke mediation is mediation support that falls outside of our core mediation areas of neighbourhood, intergenerational mediation and workplace. Through bespoke support, we apply the principles and process of mediation to the communication breakdown or dispute, drawing on the additional skills and training of our experienced mediations.
Some examples of this might be mediation between
- Adult siblings, or parents and adult children whose relationship has broken.
- Elder mediation, centred on the care or contact with an older family member.
- Mediation between a local business and other community users, or a customer.
If you feel bespoke mediation would be helpful, please contact us for a discussion.
It is best to speak to us first, before making a referral so we can identify the best way to support you.
What is the process?
The process for bespoke mediation will depend on the nature of the case but will follow the same stages as all mediation.
Following a referral, one of our Case Co-ordinators will have an initial telephone discussion with all those involved to see what has been happening and decide if mediation could be helpful.
If all parties agree to take part, our mediators arrange individual meetings so each party can have a confidential discussion about the issues. This could be in person, or online depending on the circumstances.
If its appropriate, mediators will then organise a meeting between everyone involved. To help parties communicate and draw up a non-legally binding agreement which everyone voluntarily signs up to.
If those involved feel unable to take part in a joint meeting, our mediators may offer a process called ‘shuttle mediation’. This means they listen to each party separately, conveying the agreed information and proposals to each party, working towards a solution.
We will do everything we can to make sure this process is accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Is there anything you can’t mediate on?
Mediation can be applied in many different circumstances.
We are unlikely to be able to offer mediation between someone who has been a victim of crime, and the perpetrator, or in circumstances where we are unable to make the meetings balanced.t
We can discuss this with you when you speak to us and may be able to signpost you to alternative support if necessary.
Mediation is voluntary and we are only able to provide mediation if the parties consent to participate.
How much will it cost?
The cost of bespoke mediation will depend on the nature of the case and the number of parties involved.
If you contact us with a brief overview of the situation, we will be able to give you an accurate cost, free of charge.
Where will my meetings take place?
We have offices in St Leonards-on-Sea and Hailsham where meetings take place.
We can also meet people online, in community venues or at home if you would prefer. Occasionally we can also provide one-to-one support over the telephone.
Joint mediation will always take place in a neutral venue, away from where the conflict is experienced.
Will anyone find out what is said?
Mediation is confidential and we will not share any information with the other parties involved, without your permission.
The only time we would breach confidentiality is if we had a concern about your safety or the safety of someone else, under our safeguarding policy.
Who attends the meetings?
It is important that the key people involved in the conflict attend the meetings.
You can bring someone to support you in meetings if you need to, and we ask that you let the mediators know that this is happening in advance.
Get in touch
If you would like to contact Mediation Plus, please use this form.
You can also make online referrals, by visiting our project pages.
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