Embedding Mediation in Higher Education: The CMC at the LawWorks Information Exchange
Embedding Mediation in Higher Education: The CMC at the LawWorks Information Exchange
Mediation clinics are becoming an increasingly valued part of the higher education landscape, offering students the opportunity to engage with dispute resolution as a practical activity rather than a theoretical concept.
At a recent LawWorks Information Exchange, Victoria Harris, the CMC’s Chief Executive, joined academics and practitioners to explore what embedding mediation within universities looks like in practice, and why it matters.
Victoria Harris, Chief Executive of the Civil Mediation Council, recently attended a LawWorks Information Exchange, where she presented on the work of the CMC and its role in supporting higher education institutions seeking to establish mediation clinics.
She was joined by Dr Charlie Irvine (University of Strathclyde), Professor Jane Bryan (University of Warwick), and Emma McAndry, Director and Founder of Essential Mediation Solutions. Together, the panel explored the value of embedding mediation within higher education, highlighting the importance of giving students the opportunity to engage with mediation as a practical activity.
During the session, Dr Charlie Irvine shared insights from the University of Strathclyde’s mediation clinic, including its partnership with the Sheriff Courts in Scotland. Professor Jane Bryan and Emma McAndry spoke about their work at the University of Warwick and beyond to help resolve student disputes. The panel also explored how mediation clinics can support disputes within higher education institutions, between students, and also for the benefit of the wider community. Discussion covered collaboration with community mediation groups, the importance of effective case management systems, approaches to evaluating outcomes, and the types of disputes that mediation clinics are well placed to support.
Feedback following the event included:
This was one of the most useful and informative sessions I have attended. Lots to think about and I wish we had more time!
Practitioners sharing their stories, models, and offering their support is so valuable.
Victoria commented:
“I’m always pleased to support the next generation of students to develop a strong understanding of mediation, and to gain the practical insight they need to contribute meaningfully to the modern dispute resolution landscape.”
Many thanks to LawWorks and to Rebecca Howell and Ann-Marie Dillon for the invitation to participate in this event.
