Navigating conflict and change well comes down to understanding, empathy and collaboration.

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process designed to help resolve disputes between parties. It is an alternative to formal legal proceedings, focusing on collaboration and communication to reach resolutions. From the initial consultation to filling out intake forms and ultimately reaching a resolution, all aspects of mediation are entirely confidential.

If you are involved in a dispute with another party and have not been able to reach a resolution independently, you can consider engaging a mediator. Mediation can be beneficial in personal, professional or commercial contexts. Disputes can include conflicts between business partners, family members, neighbours or workplace colleagues. Mediation is ideal for those who want to maintain control over the outcome of their disagreement rather than leaving it in the hands of a judge. It also suits those looking for a quicker, less formal and more cost-effective resolution than going to court.

Mediation can be a valuable tool for individuals considering separation or dealing with conflicts. It offers a structured, neutral environment where both parties can openly communicate their concerns with the guidance of an impartial mediator. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, mediation helps manage disagreements before they escalate into more serious legal or interpersonal issues. Whether navigating personal separation or workplace challenges, mediation empowers people to resolve conflicts constructively, preserving relationships and minimising disruption.

A professional mediator acts as a neutral facilitator, helping parties communicate, identify issues and reach agreements while remaining impartial. They do not make decisions, determine who is right or wrong, or define outcomes. A mediator will help explore the issues at hand and facilitate productive discussions. For example, the mediator can set respectful ground rules, such as allowing everyone to speak without interruption.

A mediator will not provide legal advice to the parties involved; rather, they manage the mediation process, encourage collaboration and maintain confidentiality. By fostering effective communication, the mediator helps the parties reach a resolution that suits their unique circumstances and, where possible, helps preserve or strengthen relationships throughout the process.

Mediation offers a faster and more cost-effective resolution to disputes compared to lengthy court proceedings. It promotes confidentiality, allows parties to maintain control over the outcome, and fosters amicable solutions that benefit all involved.

Mediation costs can vary depending on several factors, such as the duration of the mediation, any necessary travel, and the complexity of the case. During the initial consultation, you can receive a clearer indication of the potential cost for your specific case. The fees for mediation are typically shared equally between the parties involved in the dispute, and payment is required in advance. This ensures a commitment from all parties before starting the mediation process.

The location of mediation depends on the circumstances of the dispute and the convenience of the parties involved. Mediation sessions can occur in person or remotely, depending on the preferences and availability of those involved. All parties must agree to the chosen location before the mediation can begin.

Core Mediation stands out for its commitment to open dialogue, constructive problem-solving and reaching fair resolutions. Our accredited mediators bring expertise, empathy and professionalism to ensure your mediation experience is supportive, efficient and successful.

Generalist HR support covers the day-to-day HR needs of a business: things like employee relations, policies and procedures, performance management, compliance and general HR queries. Rather than specialising in one narrow area, it means having one point of contact who can help across the full range of HR issues as they come up.

Instead of employing a full-time HR person, you get access to experienced HR support as and when you need it, without the ongoing cost of a full-time salary. This can work in two ways:

• Ongoing support: a consistent point of contact for regular HR needs, whether that's a set number of hours each month or an as-needed arrangement. Think of it as having HR on tap.
• Project-based engagement: support for a specific piece of work with a clear start and end point, such as developing a policy, running a restructure, or implementing a change initiative. We scope this together upfront, so you know what's involved from the outset.

Many businesses use a mix of both, depending on what's happening at the time.

Yes. Change management is a specialist area alongside our generalist HR services. Whether you're restructuring, updating systems and processes, or navigating a period of significant change, we help you plan and communicate that change in a way that keeps your people informed, supported and engaged throughout.