Compact
Mediation Scheme
Compact Mediation Scheme- what is it?
The Scheme offers the services of neutral mediators
in disputes related either to the letter or the spirit
of the Compact –the framework which sets out how
the Government and voluntary and community sector work
together-and Compact Codes of Good Practice. Mediation
can be sought on such issues as funding, consultation
and policy appraisal, volunteering, Black and Minority
Ethnic (BME) groups, and community groups.
The scheme is open to voluntary and community sector
organisations and Government departments, Government
Offices for the Regions in England, executive agencies
and non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs). From 2004
access to the scheme has been opened as an option for
dealing with disputes relating to Local Compacts between
the sector and local public sector bodies (including
NDPBs acting as local delivery agents). The Home Office
has appointed CEDR Solve, a recognised leader in the
field of dispute resolution, to operate the Scheme.
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How do parties access the scheme, or find out
more information about it?
CEDR Solve will consider both new and existing complaints,
providing initial advice on whether the scheme can assist
in a dispute. In some cases they may suggest alternative
means of resolution if appropriate.
Further information on the scheme can be found on:
- The Compact Mediation Scheme leaflet available from
CEDR
Solve at or by contacting them on telephone 020
7536 6060.
This will be of special importance to officials that
deal with the voluntary and community sector, and who
may at some stage become involved in related disputes.
What is the Compact Advocacy Programme, and
how does it differ?
This National Council for Voluntary Organisation’s
(NCVO) Compact Advocacy Programme helps voluntary and
community organisations in dispute with a Government
Department or agency where there has been a breach of
the Compact. NCVO will advocate on behalf of an organisation
to help their case.
The Compact Mediation Scheme is completely independent
and open to both Government and the voluntary and community
sector.
Mediation can be taken up at any stage, and can be
effective at an early stage when a dispute first arises,
preventing a relationship from deteriorating.
Mediation is:
- voluntary- both sides must agree to go to mediation
- private and confidential
- affordable and cost-effective
- conducted by a fully trained professional mediator
- and leads to a rapid and binding solution (about
80% of mediations settle in one day).
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