Our Scottish colleagues bite the bullet

At last, someone has been brave enough to introduce a clean, simple benchmarking process for mediators.

Come autumn the new Scottish Mediation Register will be ready and will set minimum standards for all forms of mediation in Scotland.

An initiative of Scottish Mediation Network, I imagine they will be trying to build brand recognition. It will be interesting to see if they position membership of the SMR as the gold standard or the minimum entry point for Scottish mediators.

Although easier for a small country, one central repository for mediators is a big step and one that should be considered in other jurisdictions as the cowgirls and boys amongst us grow.

The SMR will provide for the quality of mediation services, mediators and mediation training and Scottish mediators from all walks of life will be able to apply online to be registered. Note the requirement for insurance.

The Scottish Mediation Register minimum standards cover: Adequate training from a trainer or team of trainers with appropriate experience • A requirement for some form of initial mentoring or co-mediating to gain experience • Post-training Continuing Practice Development and practice support • Adherence to an appropriate code of conduct • An appropriate system for addressing concerns and handling complaints • Appropriate Indemnity Insurance

For further details contact Ewan Malcolm