Usually, the first steps required for a mediation can be arranged over the phone. However, a face to face interview before mediation can be helpful in some instances, such as when young people or people from non-English speaking backgrounds are involved. The CJC will arrange interpreting assistance as required. Special arrangements can also be made for the needs of people with disabilities. Hints for making referrals Mediation is voluntary and parties will need to be encouraged and reassured if they are to take up the offer.
Informed choice is important.
Explain the options available, and the possible consequences of those options. Explain the advantages of mediation. There is usually an initial reluctance to use mediation. Meeting with the other party is not necessarily an attractive idea. Many people need to hear the suggestion from several different sources before they take it up.