It’s a voluntary process where a neutral mediator facilitates a conversation between conflicting parties to help them reach an acceptable resolution.

It focuses on understanding, and finding solutions that address everyone's needs, rather than imposing decisions.

Mediation prioritises communication, respect, and voluntary participation, allowing parties to control the outcome.

1. Introduction

Establish an understanding of the process.

2. Sharing Perspectives

Each party shares their perspective.

3. Identifying Issues

Key concerns and interests are clarified.

4. Exploring Options

Parties brainstorm possible solutions.

5. Reaching Agreement

An acceptable agreement is created.

6. Closure

Follow-up actions are established.

1. Encourages Collaboration

Promotes open communication.

2. Preserves Relationships

Focuses on cooperation.

3. Empowers Parties

Allows participants to control the process.

4. Addresses Underlying Issues

Goes beyond the surface.

5. Saves Time and Money

Faster and cheaper than court.

6. Reduces Stress

Informal & supportive environment.

It’s about building, maintaining, and repairing relationships through respect, fairness, and open communication.

It focuses on understanding harm, its impact, and what’s needed to make things right.

Rather than blame, it encourages accountability, healing, and moving forward.

Often used in schools, workplaces, and communities, it’s both a method and a mindset based on empathy and fairness.

It works by creating a safe space for honest conversations. It brings people together—those who’ve caused harm, and those affected—to share their perspectives, express emotions, and find solutions.

1. Preparation: Facilitators meet with everyone involved to check they’re ready to participate.

2. Dialogue: A structured meeting (often in a circle) where everyone shares how they’ve been affected and what they need to move forward.

3. Resolution: The group agrees on actions to repair harm, rebuild trust, and prevent further issues.

It’s effective because it focuses on addressing the root causes of harm and repairing relationships.

1. Encourages accountability: People take responsibility for their actions through understanding the impact on others.

2. Promotes healing: Those affected get a chance to voice their feelings, be heard, and work towards closure.

3. Builds trust: Open, respectful dialogue helps restore relationships.

4. Prevents future harm: By focusing on understanding and resolving issues, it reduces the likelihood of repeat conflict.

5. Fosters connection: It’s a collaborative process, promoting empathy, mutual respect, and shared solutions.