Restorative mediation brings people who are in conflict into communication in order to repair harm by giving them a voice in a safe environment.
With a restorative mediation intervention there is no identified victim and offender relationship. In this way restorative interventions can be used anywhere to prevent conflict, build relationships and repair harm by enabling people to communicate effectively and positively.
Restorative Mediation is an intervention that:-
- Brings together people who are involved in ongoing conflict which is causing harm
- Creates a supported environment where participants find and own their own solutions after sharing the impact of the conflict
- Aims to increase understanding and therefore tolerance between participants
- Requires participants to take personal responsibility for outcomes
- Focusses on solutions and the future.
Restorative Mediation is NOT:-
- Soft arbitration
- Legally binding
- A means to resolve a legal dispute
Restorative Mediation aims to engage participants in direct communication as this is considered more impactive, but other forms of restorative practice may be available
Mediation short case study
This case was referred to RJ HIOW by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police after reports of ongoing conflict and complaints to police between neighbours which had been on-going for some years. In separate meetings, Mediators explored with both parties a variety of issues which had impacted on everyone's quality of life including disagreement about boundary fences, parking and a breakdown in communication.
The parties agreed to meet which allowed them the opportunity to address the misunderstandings that had developed over time in a facilitated way. Practical solutions were discussed to improve day‑to‑day living, and Neighbour A was able to express the emotional pain she had experienced throughout the conflict. Neighbour B admitted that she was frightened of Neighbour A and experienced her behaviour as aggressive and confrontational. Toward the end of the session, there was a focus on taking small steps, with Neighbour B saying, “I think we should just try and see the best in each other.”
In follow up meetings both neighbours have said they are now able to live alongside one another with significantly reduced stress.
Mediation Services in Hampshire and Isle of Wight
RJ HIOW / Restorative Solutions work with providers across the county based on geographical location. All referrals must be sent to RJHIOW / Restorative Solutions directly for assessment.
- RJ HIOW / Restorative Solutions- East Hampshire
- Portsmouth Mediation Service - Portsmouth, Havant, Hayling Island, Waterlooville, Fareham, Gosport, Winchester and Eastleigh
- NFS - Isle of Wight, Southampton, New Forest, Test Valley, Basingstoke, Fleet, Farnborough and Aldershot
