Mediation

We will investigate all reports of anti-social behaviour. It is often better to sort out problems between people by talking, rather than confrontation or even legal action.

This is known as mediation.

About Mediation

What is mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary and non-binding process that uses a neutral third party to help those involved reach an agreed resolution to their dispute.  A professional mediator enables communication and understanding. They seek to identify issues and interests and a possible basis for agreement.  Mediators don’t take sides or judge and are confidential.  

What is mediation suitable for?

Mediation is suitable for any kind of neighbour dispute. For example, noise, verbal abuse, children’s behaviour, pets, boundary issues, car parking and many other sources of dispute.

What does it cost?

It cost nothing. This is a free and confidential service by professional mediators.

Who can use the service?

Any of our tenants, or anyone affected by the behaviour of our tenants or households.

How to use the mediation service

Step 1.

Report the details of the dispute to your local Housing Executive office.

Step 2.

They will contact the other people involved, to see if they would also be interested in mediation.  If they agree to mediation, the local office will then refer the case to our mediation service provider.

Step 3.

The mediation service will contact all the people involved in the dispute and arrange to meet with them. The first meeting will happen with each party separately. This meeting can happen at your home, or in the local Housing Executive office if you prefer. The mediator will listen to the problems you are having and decide whether or not mediation might help.

Step 4.

If mediation can help, the mediator can meet the people involved in the dispute separately, or with everybody in the same room. A face to face meeting is often the best and quickest way for mediation to happen.

When not to use the mediation service

  • If you’re not ready to negotiate (for example if you are too hurt or angry)
  • If you are already pursuing legal action
  • There is a risk of violence between you and your neighbour

Next
Our Community Safety Strategy