Simon Richards of Vectis Mediation recently spent time briefing Andrew Turner about the growth of mediation services, and how they are increasingly being used as an alternative to litigation, both nationally and locally.
Mr Richards contacted the Island’s MP as mediation is receiving increasing attention in Parliament as a proven and successful alternative method of resolving disputes. Mediation is often much cheaper than turning to the courts to settle differences, it delivers a sense of ownership over the outcome and can be much quicker and less distressing for all involved.
Mediation is a way of resolving disputes between two or more parties, using a ‘mediator’ to facilitate discussion between the parties (either separately or together) to come to a mutually acceptable agreement to resolve problems. It is often used in workplaces or to sort out delicate family matters and also used in other areas of conflict such as disputes between neighbours. A settlement can often be made legally binding if required. It is increasingly being recommended and used by firms of solicitors to settle disputes where a consensual approach is considered appropriate.
Mr Turner said:
“I was very pleased to meet Mr Richards and learn more about mediation, which is a fast growing alternative to more traditional methods of conflict resolution. Although still developing, it may well become more widely used in a range of disputes as pressure on legal aid budgets grows. Mediation lends itself to sorting out small disputes but it can be extended to larger, high profile disputes in the right circumstances. I was particularly pleased to hear that mediators on the Island are willing to work together in order to promote the concept. It is often a good alternative to legal action and is well worth considering to settle disputes of all kinds.”
The proprietor of Vectis Mediation, Mr Richards, added:
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to discuss mediation with the Island’s MP. It is very encouraging that Parliament is keen to promote the increased availability and use of mediation as an alternative to legal action.”
