New mediation service launched

Warring neighbours are to be given a helping hand in resolving their differences following the introduction of a new scheme.

District of Easington Council, East Durham Homes (EDH) and Easington Community Safety Partnership have joined forces to launch a community mediation service in a bid to stamp out neighbourhood disputes.

It is hoped the scheme will also help reduce anti-social behaviour in East Durham communities.

Pam Cox, EDH Specialist Support Manager, said: “Even the smallest dispute between neighbours can escalate into something much bigger, and failure to find a resolution can affect a person’s quality of life and even place their home in jeopardy.

“With effective mediation, however, it’s possible to resolve issues peacefully and effectively, producing a win/win outcome for all those concerned.”

EDH has previously used meditation as a tool for dealing with neighbourhood disagreements but this has been on a case-by-case basis and has been limited to disputes involving council tenants.

The new service, however, is being provided through a year-long contract with independent firm UNITE, and will give greater scope for dealing with problems involving residents from a range of tenure.

Residents referred to the new service will be asked to attend face-to-face mediation sessions with their neighbour and could also be given information on other local services that may help resolve their problems.

Cheryl O’Hara and Margaret Glenwright, from Peterlee, are among the first residents to benefit from the service.

The pair, who live in neighbouring council properties in Jude Place, were referred to the service by EDH after Margaret raised concerns about the behaviour of Cheryl’s son and some of his friends.

Cheryl and Margaret were invited to attend a mediation session together where they were encouraged to discuss their problems.

Following the session, the two mums agreed to remain in contact and to discuss and attempt to seek solutions to any problems between their families.

The pair now receive regular visits from representatives from EDH, the council and other agencies who offer help and advice when it is needed.

Both women believe the intervention has made a dramatic difference to their lives.

Margaret said: “I was getting eggs thrown at my windows and abuse shouted at me in the street, and although Cheryl and I never actually fell out, I didn’t feel I could approach her about it.

“The situation was really getting me down but the mediation made a massive difference. If I have a problem now I know I can just knock on her door and talk to her about it.”

Following the mediation session Cheryl also agreed to attend parenting classes.

“My son’s behaviour has definitely settled down as a result of the classes and Margaret and I have really stuck to our commitment to talking through our problems,” she said.

“It’s made a big difference and we’re all thinking a lot more positive now.”

For more information on the mediation service contact Amanda Fulcher, EDH Enforcement Manager, on 0800 032 0835.