Greater Manchester Chamber offers on-line Mediation Service
As more sectors and parts of the economy re-open and restart in what still are challenging times, the capacity for disputes to arise is greater than ever.
Courts are taking longer to process disputes than normal and there is the potential for further delays even after lockdown restrictions are relaxed.
As part of its recovery plans for the local business community, Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce understands that support is critical and the focus for business owners must be on doing the work, not getting tied down in lengthy legal disputes.
The Chamber has partnered with one of the UK’s leading mediators, Paul Johnson of Exchange Chambers, to now deliver its mediation service on-line making sure members and other businesses not only have the support they need in these difficult times but can access the service remotely, saving time and money by avoiding going to court.
Paul is a former solicitor/partner who transferred to the Bar in 2006 to focus solely on mediating disputes. He is an accredited mediator and has a wealth of experience of many types of disputes in a wide range of areas. He has been listed as a Leading Mediator in Chambers & Partners and The Legal 500 since 2008, and is presently ranked as one of the top barrister mediators in the UK.
The parties involved in the dispute meet with Paul, who leads the discussions to discover what the issues are and what the ideal outcomes are for both sides.
During the negotiations, the parties have control over the decision and the terms of the agreement. The mediator will explore the dispute impartially, but the result remains in the hands of the parties.
The mediation success rate stands at more than 80%, but even in those cases where decisions aren’t reached, the fact that in-depth discussions have already taken place can help further down the line.
The mediation sessions can be held online.
Once government guidelines relax and business resumes, mediation sessions can be held either at the Chamber’s city centre offices - accredited by the Civil Mediation Council and providing the ideal setting for dispute resolution discussions; one of the parties' offices, or Exchange Chambers.
Mediation facilitates clear communication, structure and ultimately help shape a solution to a dispute. The process gives independence to the parties involved, overcoming emotional obstacles while helping both parties understand each case, and coming to a mutual and fair agreement.
For more information on this service, please contact the Chamber on 0161 393 4321 or at benefits@gmchamber.co.uk