Edinburgh Community Mediation Service (ECMS) is an important service in helping tackle antisocial behaviour, and is particularly useful at an early stage of the process. Mediation helps to resolve disagreements between individuals and groups and is a positive way of dealing with disputes as it helps those involved reach an agreement.
Mediation helps find a solution to disputes by assuming the role of an impartial third party allowing the people involved to communicate constructively with each other and help shape a positive outcome. Mediators are independent people trained to listen to both sides of disagreements and help find common ground. The service is free, voluntary and confidential and allows issues to be addressed constructively in a safe and neutral environment.
Accessing the service is straightforward and self-referrals are accepted. The mediation service handles disputes between neighbours about any issue with some of the most common involving issues of noise, boundaries, pets, abusive behaviour, parking etc. When neighbours agree to use mediation the success rate is very high, resulting in agreed solutions and positive outcomes.
ECMS is a citywide, confidential service.
