A typical mediation session lasts around two hours and follows a simple, five-stage process. The aim is to give everyone a chance to speak, be heard, and work together to find solutions.
- Introduction
The mediator starts by explaining how the session will run and covers housekeeping matters. We also check if you and your neighbour want to set ground rules, for example, listening carefully, working towards solutions together, and keeping the conversation respectful. - Sharing Perspectives
Each person has a few minutes to explain their view of the situation, uninterrupted, and to highlight what they would like to resolve. - Clarifying the Agenda
We create a clear list of issues to discuss, based on what everyone has shared. - Discussing Each Issue
For every agenda item, the mediator ensures both sides have fully explained their situation, needs, and concerns, then helps explore potential solutions. - Agreements and Next Steps
Where agreements are reached, the mediator writes them up and circulates a summary after the session, so everyone knows what has been agreed.
This structured approach ensures that discussions are fair, focused, and constructive.
