Breathing Space

As working from home becomes less common and the pressure on office meeting room increases, mediating parties sometimes struggle for suitable accommodation. In the last month I have been allocated three windowless rooms and two with active mould on the walls. For the parties the day is already stressful but a high floor in the Shard should be uplifting…except there is no window, let alone a view. In fairness this was a late replacement when the intended offices were flooded and we did manage to sort a view for both parties. An inspirational view really does help. I have seen parties unwilling to meet in joint session but becoming engaged in animated conversation watching Tower Bridge open and a tall ship come through. That was exceptional but there are some good venues including the IDRC, many solicitors’ offices and barristers’ chambers, but here is a quick checklist for the organiser.

1. Is the venue easily accessible by public or private transport having regard to the parties’ home address?

2. Are there rooms for each party and the mediator?

3. Do all rooms have suitable lighting and preferably daylight?

4. Are there sufficient chairs including for a joint session?

5. Is the venue providing lunch and refreshments and if not what other arrangements can be made|? Are all parties aware?

6. Is there a list of room numbers with the names of the occupants?

7. If the venue is not open 24/7, are the parties aware of the earliest arrival and cut-off times?

8. Has provision been made for printing documents out of office hours?

And finally, is there a supply of quality chocolate in each room? But that is one thing you don’t have to worry about in my mediations!