When two or more parties are involved in a dispute, reaching a settlement can be a difficult and complex process. Fortunately, the practice of mediation provides a solution that offers a non-adversarial resolution approach. Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that involves hiring a neutral third party to facilitate a discussion and help the conflicting parties arrive at a mutually agreeable solution. However, mediation can come in various forms.
1. Facilitative Mediation
This is the most common type of mediation. It involves a neutral mediator who facilitates the discussion in a structured and impartial manner. The mediator is not allowed to offer opinions or recommendations to either party; instead, they help the disputing parties negotiate through active listening. Facilitative mediation meetings are usually held at a neutral location, and the parties involved must come to an agreement.
2. Evaluative Mediation
This type of mediation, though still neutral in principle, allows the mediator to give their professional opinion on the merits of each party’s position. The evaluative mediator may also offer suggestions on how to settle the conflict. This mediation technique is particularly common in legal disputes and commercial matters.
3. Transformational Mediation
This mediation focuses on transforming the interaction of the participants. The mediator will work with the conflicting parties to help them communicate in a more profound and constructive way. In so doing, the mediator intends to restore relationships and understandings that the conflict could have dismantled.
4. Narrative Mediation
Narrative mediation is also commonly used. Its purpose is to help the conflicting parties understand and communicate their perspectives. Hence, the mediation expert will work with each participant to develop a coherent narrative of their life, experiences and how that led to the conflict. This mediation technique mainly focuses on allowing everyone involved to tell their story without interruption.
5. Online Mediation
Online mediation is another form of mediation that is increasingly gaining popularity. It is similar to facilitative mediation, but the process is carried out entirely over the internet. Online mediation can be done through video conferencing, email exchanges, or a combination of both. This type of mediation is convenient and can reduce the cost of the process.
Summary
It is essential to understand the different types of Mediation before deciding on which one is best for your conflicts. At Rhino Mediation, we believe in providing different solutions tailored to the unique needs of each case. Therefore, we use a combination of the mediation techniques as described above. These could range from facilitative, evaluative, narrative, to transformational methods. Our expert mediators work diligently to achieve an amicable, fair, and just settlement for all parties involved. So, if you are looking for a reliable Mediation service provider in the UK, contact us today at Rhino Mediation.