How does Mediation work?


Although the precise structure of a mediation will depend on the issues and the parties involved in a dispute, the aims and methods are often very similar.


The mediator will work with you in an informal environment, exploring a dispute impartially, taking into account everyone’s objectives and suggesting ways in which the gaps can be bridged. The mediator will never dictate settlement terms or rule on a dispute. The mediation process is entirely confidential.


It is important to remember that mediation is a voluntary process – the parties themselves are always in control.


If a resolution is reached (and in the vast majority of cases it is) the mediator will work to produce a binding legal agreement that will form the basis of the relationship going forward.


Whatever the nature of the dispute, before the mediation begins you will be supplied with detailed guidance on how the process will work on the day, what to expect and how best to prepare.


At White Poppy Mediation we aim to make the mediation process as simple and easy to navigate as possible. We use plain language. Our aim is to resolve disputes without adding to the stress of the situation.


If you cannot meet in person mediation can take place remotely either online or via telephone. 



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FAQs

  • When should I use mediation?

    Mediation can be used at at any time when your dispute cannot be resolved. It can be used before or even once legal proceedings have commenced.

  • What are the benefits of mediation?

    Compared to litigation in courts mediation is cheaper, quicker and alot less stressful. It is confidential and without prejudice. The parties can agree any outcome they like whereas courts are very limited on what they can order. 

  • What if the other side does not want to mediate?

    It is not possible to force a party to mediate although courts can give directions that mediation should be attempted. Often if parties understand that the process is without prejudice they will be willing to give it a try.

  • Will there be a binding decision at the end of the process?

    Once an agreement has been reached and put in writing and signed by all parties it is legally binding on the parties. 

  • What if I am not sure whether I want to mediate?

    Give us a call and discuss your dispute and we will advise if mediation is suitable and how the process will work in your case.

  • Will mediation be successful in my case?

    Mediation is a very flexible process and a large majority of mediations settle. The mediator is there to help but there is no guarantees of success.

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Complaints

White Poppy Mediation strives to provide the highest professional standards of service. We welcome positive and negative feedback on our service. We hope you will not have a reason to complain but if you do please follow the procedure below. We take all complaints seriously and see them as an opportunity to learn and improve our service.


  • If you do need to make a complaint, we ask that you do so in writing with a brief outline of your concerns and provide any supporting documentation you might have.
  • We will aim to consider and respond as quickly as possible (usually within 14 days).
  • The complaints procedure will take account of the confidentiality provisions in the Mediation Agreement signed by and binding upon all parties including the mediator.
  • If the response is not accepted the complainant can appeal to the Civil Mediation Council (CMC) on certain grounds. The CMC operates a final stage complaints procedure, whereby it can consider complaints from those people who have exhausted a mediator’s own complaints procedure. Details of the CMC's appeal processes can be found here: https://civilmediation.org/for-the-public/complaints/ .