BT1378 Send Mediation

Previously we have accessed a core package of 5 mediation sessions per annum but this is no longer sufficient for service needs. A package of 10 is required in order to meet service demands.

The dispute resolution and mediation service should facilitate discussion between both/ all parties in order to assist in the resolving of issues. There should be a confidentiality agreement in place between all parties.

The mediation service should also engage directly in discussion parent/ carers and young people to adhere to the mediation requirements as set out in the Code of Practice (January 2015). The service should ensure that the service is delivered in a timely manner and that a mediation certificate is provided to parents/ carers and young people if requested so that they can pursue an appeal to the SEN tribunal should they consider it appropriate to do so.

The Dispute resolution/ mediation service should (COP Section 11.11):

-be of high standard

-be impartial

-provide facilitators, who are independent with appropriate skills and expertise in dispute resolution; have an understanding in SEND processes, procedures and legislation; have no role in the decisions taken for a particular case; maintain confidentiality; carry out processes quickly and to a timetable carried out by all parties.

-establish protocols and mechanisms for referring parents and young people and provide support for access

-establish a service agreement setting out appropriate standards

-seek feedback from the service to inform and influence LA and provider decisions on SEN policies, procedures and practices.

Venues for mediation should ensure appropriate confidentiality can be maintained for all parties.

The delivery/ timing of the service will be dependent on requests received by parents, carers and/ or young people. It is anticipated that there will be approximately 10 sessions over the course of a year. Sessions should allow up to 3 hours to ensure all matters are considered.