Brighton and Hove Independent Mediation Service

An introduction to Brighton and Hove Independent Mediation Service

Since 1993 BHIMS, a registered charity, has worked with residents in the area of conflict resolution to build stronger more cohesive local communities. We develop and share conflict resolution and communication tools to resolve current problems and reduce future conflicts. We achieve this by training local resident volunteers in community mediation skills. Volunteers work in pairs to mediate conflict within their communities, working with families & neighbours to find realistic solutions to problems that are acceptable to all involved.

We work with anyone who seeks to find a resolution to conflict including, but not limited to: 1.People having difficulties with neighbours/others in their community
2.People facing conflict within their own family
3.Tenants/landlord
4.Workplace disputes

We do this by:
1.Training our volunteer mediators to a high standard.
2.Remaining impartial at all times.
3.Seeking to help & encourage those in dispute to come up with their own solutions and agreements.
4.Raising funds adequate to maintain staff necessary for the smooth running of the service and to pay volunteers’ expenses.

The Service has over 50 highly trained volunteers who can visit those who may be experiencing difficulties or conflict with others in their community.

The Service offers an alternative to police or legal involvement. We are impartial. Our job is to help and encourage those in dispute to come up with their own solutions and agreements. We offer an alternative to legal action. We do not make judgments and have no authority to tell people what to do.