Mediation

Mediation as a means of resolving disagreements

Global Mediation provides a specialist mediation service in relation to disagreements between parents/carers, schools and Local Authorities over children' Special Educational Needs. Mediation is a forward-thinking way of resolving disagreements where the parties themselves, with the help of a neutral third party (the Mediator), work out a mutually acceptable solution in a confidential environment. The mediation process can result in better solutions reached by the parties themselves and enables parties to reconsider entrenched positions.

Mediation is voluntary. Both sides have to agree to take part and are free to leave at any time. Mediation is not appropriate in all cases. The service may be available when parents have used up all other options including:

• Speaking to the class teacher or SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator)
• Contacting the Parent Partnership service
• Contacting the Head Teacher
• Speaking to the Local Authority
• Asking for a meeting with the Local Authority (a named officer).

If all the above have been tried and there is still disagreement, mediation remains an option if everyone involved agrees it is the best way forward and the disagreement is to do with an SEN issue.

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