Mediation

Family Mediation is a process in which an independent, professionally trained Mediator helps you work out an arrangement for different situations regarding your circumstance. Gwent Family Support recognises that families can often experience a breakdown in communication in times of crisis. Mediation empowers you to stay in control.

Q: What can I expect from Mediation with GDAFS?

Working 1:1 with families we look at ways to empower concerned others to advocate for themselves and prioritise their needs and wellbeing. Mediation can support the next part of this journey, where Concerned Others and their Loved Ones are offered a safe space to communicate. As your Mediator is also trained in therapeutic interventions, this works differently to standard Mediation as these skills are utilised to support the sessions.

Your Mediator is trained to….

• Listen and empower you to work out a situation which may have seemed hopeless.
• Navigate and encourage you how to communicate positively to ensure all parties feel heard and validated.
• Discuss your options and what might work best for the future by setting boundaries and expectations.
• Combine Mediation with therapeutic intervention to guide and support all parties.
• Signpost if applicable to other services.
• Provide a clear written summary when you reach an agreement.

 

Q: What are the locations of where Mediation is offered?

We offer Mediation across Gwent in our offices in each locality. We also recognise many of our clients would prefer mediation to take place at the family home, therefore we can offer home visits too.

Q: How does Family Mediation work and how long does it take?

It is important to remember each person’s timeline is different and that Mediation is voluntary thus all parties must consent to participate. Mediation workers are impartial and work with each family member individually and collectively.

Q: Do you have to be a client of GDAFS to be referred for Mediation?

Yes, we require clients to be actively working with Gwent Family Support to ensure they have completed some of the work required to aid Mediation sessions. It is not a requirement for the Loved One to be in treatment, but we will support referral to relevant services if required.

Q: How can I be referred to Mediation?

Your GDAFS worker can refer you for Mediation. Contact the service for more information.