Mediation Service

Why use mediation?

Every year there are thousands of problems between neighbours across Scotland. The issues involved can include noise, children's behaviour, parking, use of abusive language, and lifestyle clashes. The problems could emerge between two neighbours or larger groups in the community.

Community Mediation is a positive and informal way for neighbours to find practical solutions to their problems. Mediation at an early stage can help prevent the situation deteriorating and matters getting out of hand and can provide long term solutions to neighbour disputes.

Experience has shown that approximately 80% of parties agreeing to go forward with mediation reach a positive outcome.

What is mediation?

Community Mediation is a positive and informal way for neighbours to find practical solutions to their problems if they are willing to work towards resolving the situation.

Mediation encourages communication and can promote dialogue between the people in the dispute.

Midlothian Council mediation service

Our service is delivered by a team of trained and experienced mediators with wide ranging knowledge of the issues that lead to disputes. Our service is:

Independent and impartial

Mediators act as an impartial third party - they will not take sides or decide who is right or wrong. Mediators will help you find some common ground and to work out practical solutions to the problems that the parties can agree with. The neighbours involved decide what any agreement says with the aim being to reach a solution that is acceptable to all involved.

Confidential

Mediators work to agreed professional standards and rules of confidentiality. Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process which recognises the impact that neighbour disputes can have. The process allows everyone involved to tell their version of events and to be listened to. It also provides a chance to hear what others have to say.

Free to all residents of Midlothian

Midlothian Community Mediation offers a free service to all Midlothian residents whether they are home owners or council, housing association, or private tenants.