Frequently Asked
Questions
What is mediation?
It is an independent process that helps individuals resolve disputes.
Does it involve the police or the law?
No. We are a completely independent charity and are not attached to the law enforcement services in any way.
Does it cost anything?
If you’re a Housing Association tenant, it may not cost you anything. Speak to your housing officer to check this.
If you’re a homeowner, private tenant, a family or individual in need of support, you may qualify for help with payments. Call our office on 01633 858441 and we can advise you.
If you’re a business, there is a modest charge which varies depending on the nature of the issue, Call us for a free, confidential chat and we can advise on the most cost- effective outcome.
How long does it take?
We work to strict timetables and aim to resolve cases as quickly as possible. However, we never rush them.
How do I know if mediation is suitable for me?
If you have a dispute that you can’t resolve yourself, then mediation is a good option.
Will I have to sign a mediation document?
If you’re a Housing Association tenant and you reach an agreement, you may have to. This is optional but we do recommend that an agreement is drawn up as this serves to remind everyone what has been agreed.
Is a mediation agreement legally binding?
No. It has no basis in law. It is about you taking personal responsibility.
Does mediation work?
Yes it does. We know from our records and follow-up research that the majority of cases (almost 90%) remain resolved. Of course, the longer the resolution lasts the more the people involved are committed to it.
What happens if I break the agreement?
If you break the agreement, and it comes to the attention of the landlord, that may be grounds for more serious interventions. However, because the dispute was resolved by you and the other party, it is highly unlikely that you would feel the need to breach it.
Will my private business become public?
No. Your personal details are safe with us because our service is 100% confidential. We never discuss individuals, or their cases, outside our organisation and we adhere to the GDPR legislation.
What about Covid?
Covid-19 has had a dramatic effect on local communities. We have seen increased instances of illness, uncertainty, loss of income, anti-social behaviour and neighbourhood conflict.
At the height of the pandemic we introduced a hybrid method of working which provided support over the phone and/or via video conferencing. This was very popular and we have kept it in place.
However, we will also carry out traditional face-to-face support sessions where clients prefer and conditions allow.
Who are your mediators?
They are people from all walks of life within the same domestic and business communities we serve. They bring many years’ everyday life and / or professional experience with them.
Are your mediators properly trained and vetted?
Yes. All of our mediators undergo our own selection process as well as a check under the UK Government’s Disclosure and Disbarring Service (DBS). They are fully trained to National Open College Network Standard Level 3. We also encourage them to keep their skills and knowledge up to date, and help them do this.
Do you mediators carry ID?
Our mediators will always officially identify themselves at the first meeting and at any time afterwards if you want them to.
How many mediators are involved in a case?
We instruct two mediators to work on each case. They do not work alone.
Who runs Newport Mediation?
We are run by volunteers who live and work locally. Our Trustees and mediators are all local people. We currently employ two paid members of staff who are also fully qualified mediators.
Will you carry out mediation in Welsh?
Some of our volunteers have a working knowledge of the Welsh language but currently we do not offer mediation in Welsh.
How do you raise funds?
As a registered charity, we rely on grants, referral payments from organisations and donations from individuals.
Can I become a volunteer with Newport Mediation?
If you live locally to Newport in South Wales, and would like to help people lead better lives we would love to hear from you. Please contact the office on 01633 858441.