Highlights from the 32nd World Forum of Mediation Centres Andy Rogers reflects on the diverse discussions and insights shared at the 32nd UIA Union Internationale des Avocats World Forum of Mediation Centres, which brought together over 150 delegates from 28 countries. Hosted for the first time in London with support of CEDR and IDRC, the event commenced with remarks by Lady Justice Asplin, highlighting England’s significant strides in mediation. CMC Chair Rebecca Clark, Deputy Chair Nicolas Fournier and Programme Manager Victoria Harris were among the guest speakers. BY ANDY ROGERS The Inte ..read more

Reinforcing and Developing Resilience “How can we build inner strength through resilience?” asks mediator Susan Blum in her article, emphasising the critical need for resilience during crises as well as helping those with a critical issue to manage through mediation. Inspired by Darwin’s adaptability concept, she highlights the universal human capacity to endure and adapt across diverse cultural backgrounds. Using her 5 A’s model, mediators for themselves, as well as with their clients, can foster inner strength and facilitate constructive outcomes amid adversity. BY SUSAN BLUM Developing r ..read more

From Property Specialist to Mediation Expert: A Career Journey Embark on a journey spanning five decades in the legal sector, as we delve into Richard Buxton’s career of a seasoned solicitor turned mediation expert in this insightful interview. From his beginnings in property law to navigating complex civil and commercial disputes, Richard’s story offers insights into the evolving landscape of conflict resolution. Join us as we explore the transformative role of mediation amidst legal innovation and global change. I witnessed the horrendous stress costs and complexities of litigation early ..read more

Discussing the Future of Community Mediation with Duncan Jarrett OBE Is community mediation the key to mitigate tensions in society and even prevent threats like terrorism? CMC Programme Manager Victoria Harris interviews Duncan Jarrett OBE, former Chair and current Trustee of Mediation Hertfordshire, on the organisation’s approach to conflict prevention. Recognising the profound impact of conflict on individual well-being, particularly amid shifting demographics and familial dynamics, underscores the necessity for proactive intervention. INTERVIEW BY VICTORIA HARRIS Mediation Herts trustee ..read more

Peer Mediation Working Group at National Education Conference Last week the CMC Peer Mediation Working Group took part in the National Education Union Conference at the Bournemouth International Centre. The group was represented by Chair Michele Wheeler who is the peer mediation lead at Mediation Hertfordshire, volunteer mediator and peer mediation trainer Polly Walker, Ben Harper who is the Peer Mediation Coordinator at Quakers in Britain and CMC Programme Manager Victoria Harris. Between 3-5 April members from the CMC Peer Mediation Working Group visited the Bournemouth International ..read more

Members Come Together for CMC Spring Social at 39 Essex Chambers Last week’s members-only CMC Spring social was a great success thanks to our generous hosts at 39 Essex Chambers and all the wonderful members who attended. We have collated impressions from some of the evenings attendees who described it as “a pleasure to meet-up with fellow mediators”, “an occasion to welcome new members to the fold”, and a “chance to share a drink, catch up with familiar faces, make new contacts”. Giselle Green said: “It was wonderful having the opportunity to meet up socially with other mediators. Havi ..read more

Inspiring Women in Mediation – International Women’s Day 2024 Happy International Women’s Day 2024! Today we are paying tribute to all the inspiring women in mediation. We have received many wonderful nominations and words of appreciation for the women who shape the mediation profession. Read powerful statements about women in mediation who inspire, empower and tirelessly show up every day! Alison Love nominated by Naomi Headland Alison walked away from a law firm partnership and traditional employment to make the leap, truly believing mediation and positive conflict resolution are e ..read more

Rebecca Clark Delivers Keynote Speech at Archbishop’s Dinner 2024 CMC Chair Rebecca Clark delivered an inspiring keynote speech at the prestigious Archbishop’s Dinner at Mansion House. The biannual event celebrates the link between the City of London and the Church of England as well as other faiths with this year’s theme being ‘Disagreeing Agreeably’. Rebecca spoke alongside the Lord Mayor Professor Michael Mainelli and Archbishop Justin Welby. Read her inspiring speech about the benefits of mediation. SPEECH BY REBECCA CLARK, CHAIR OF THE CMC As a mediator, you are taught to do less speak ..read more

Meet Kezia Herzog – Former Peer Mediator Champions Peer Mediation Service Kezia Herzog, a standout at the CMC Conference for her role in showcasing peer mediation, has made significant strides as a new teacher, establishing a peer mediation programme at Exning Primary School in Suffolk. Drawing from her own transformative experience as a peer mediator at Bacon’s College, Kezia reflects on the impact of mediation and her journey from student mediator to educator in this interview with the CMC’s Victoria Harris. INTERVIEW BY VICTORIA HARRIS Kezia Herzog was the star of a video showcasing peer ..read more

Making Mediation Accessible: It’s Time for Mediation by Dana Barbu   BOOK REVIEW BY DANA SANISLAV It’s Time for Mediation by Dana Barbu is a great book because it is really easy to read and it gives such a good input on what mediation is and how it works. Most of the books regarding mediation are written for those with expertise in this area, so that many of those who could benefit from mediation are left out of receiving valuable information. This is what makes this book so special: it brings mediation closer to the general public. People can understand how mediation works, what a medi ..read more