The role of the mediator is to act as a neutral third party who can foster trust and facilitate communication so that you may reach an agreement on your child’s educational plan.
The mediation session can run anywhere from several hours to a full day, and it often takes place in a conference room.
There is a common structure that most use:
Introducing the Mediator
A neutral third party makes introductions and lays the ground rules.
Additionally, the mediator may outline the meeting’s purpose and their own role in the process.
(10-15 minute timeframe)
Your Introductory Remark 2
You explain the circumstances your kid is in from your perspective as a parent.
You also state your concerns about your child’s education and why you feel the school is failing them.
(Amount of time: 10-20)
3. The opening statement of the institution
The school gives its side of the story, detailing the many ways in which it is meeting your child’s needs.
It’s possible that the mediator will offer you a second chance to express yourself, and it’s also possible that the school will not reply to your concerns.
(Preparation time: 10-20 minutes)
Private Conversations
Each side will meet with the mediator separately after the initial statements.
A number of rounds of mediation may be required.
A mediator will likely assess the merits of your argument during these talks.
The mediator will also work to clarify the situation and identify areas of agreement between you and the institution.
You can feel safe sharing anything with the mediator.
Unless you give consent, the mediator cannot share your statements with the institution.
Duration: Several Hours
The Fifth: Collaborative Discussion
The mediator will then reunite you and the school for further discussion following the individual conversations.
At this point, compromise is possible.
(Time: at least an hour)
Sixth, wrap up the mediation
If you and the school are able to come to terms, the mediator will summarise the agreement in writing.
You have the option of signing this immediately or taking it home to review further.
The mediator assesses your development and makes recommendations for further actions if you and the school are unable to reach an agreement during this discussion.
Another round of mediation could be the next step.
It could also be something more serious, like going through the proper channels.
(Amount of Time: 30-60 Mins.)
What follows is a general framework for mediation; however, the specifics may vary depending on the culture of your institution.
It’s for the same reason, really: to get closer to a solution that everyone can live with.
The safety and happiness of your kid or young person is your top priority as a parent.
Disagreements concerning the best method to address the requirements of a child or young person with special education needs (commonly known as “SEN”) typically require an experienced, neutral mediator to resolve.
By law, local governments must facilitate SEN mediation and disagreement settlement when disagreements arise among parents, guardians, and young people.
As a seasoned SEN mediation and conflict resolution service, we can help you:
enhance lines of communication and mutual understanding so that reasonable, workable solutions can be found that benefit everyone involved, especially the child.
Mediation is a private process (unless in cases of child protection) that is held in a safe, neutral setting where both parties can feel comfortable speaking and listening to one another.
In order to find a quick, practical, and agreeable solution for all parties involved, our professional SEN mediation team works directly with them.
Each member of our team has received comprehensive training in and knowledge of the legislation and framework relating to SEN and health and social care.
Our services cover giving guidance on how to mediate disputes, as well as mediating disputes themselves, and mediating disagreements, all in compliance with the Children and Families Act of 2014 and the SEN Code of Practice that accompanied it in January 2015.
Parents, guardians, and young people can all benefit from these programmes at no cost to themselves.
Children and youth who are being evaluated for or who already have an Education Health and Care Plan may benefit from mediation services to help them work out their differences.
Success Stories
From Lakes Mediation Salford Quays Clients
Children are often the silent victims in family disputes, which is why Lakes Family MediationSalford Quays offers a unique solution – Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM). Our goal is to empower children by ensuring their voices are heard and considered during the decision-making process. Through CIM, our dedicated Child Consultants create a safe and supportive environment where children can express their thoughts and feelings. These insights are then shared with parents during mediation sessions, guiding them towards making decisions that prioritize their children’s well-being. Lakes Family MediationSalford Quays understands the importance of creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone involved. Trust us to provide compassionate guidance and effective solutions as we work together to achieve resolutions that benefit your entire family.
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