Mediation may help to resolve a dispute between neighbours, with trained mediators supporting all parties to find a way forward that works for everyone.

When disputes happen in a community, they can really affect people’s day-to-day lives.
They often bring stress, frustration, and anger, which can make it harder to sort things out calmly. 

If not dealt with early, these issues can grow and end up involving the council, police, landlords, solicitors, or even the courts. That’s a lot for anyone to go through, and it can damage relationships between neighbours for a long time.

Mediation offers a chance to resolve conflicts in a calm, confidential, and constructive way, before they reach that point.

Mediation is a voluntary process, and both parties must be willing to take part.  

When a referral is made, trained staff will have a chat with you to understand what’s going on and if mediation could be a helpful way forward.

If mediation is appropriate, mediators will arrange to meet with each party involved in the dispute. These meetings can take place in your home or online via Microsoft Teams and are held separately to make sure everyone feels comfortable.

During the initial meeting, the mediators will:

• Explain the mediation process in full.
• Listen carefully and sensitively to your concerns.
• Remain neutral — they won’t judge or give advice.
• Help identify key issues and encourage you to think about possible solutions.

The goal is to support all parties in finding a way forward that works for everyone. To find common ground and to make some form of agreement that suits everyone.

More visits may be needed, and if everyone is  willing, a joint meeting at a neutral venue will be arranged.

During this joint meeting, mediators will support everyone to find  common ground, with the aim of reaching an agreement that works for everyone involved.

To be considered for mediation, you must have an open case with our Anti-Social Behaviour team. Contact your caseworker for further details and advice on the next steps.