Family Mediation
Woking YMCA has partnered with Runnymede Borough Council to provide a Mediation Service funded by the councils housing budget. This service is to support young people at risk of Homelessness return to the family home where it is safe to do so.
Runnymede Borough Council is one of a growing number of local authorities providing a mediation service. The aim is to get families talking. Often when a problem is discussed with a third party, it can be worked out.
Meetings with a Mediator will take place in a neutral location, rather than in an office – which we are aware can be quite intimidating for young people. The Mediator will look for signs that the young person is fleeing domestic violence, in which case specialist support is provided.
How it works
A potential client who is threatened with homelessness will be referred to this service. The YMCA Mediator will visit the client. They will look to mediate with the family to get them back home – either so a planned move on can be arranged – or the young person can stay permantly.
It’s not about stopping people moving out if that’s the right thing. It’s to prevent homelessness and not for the young person to be in a crisis situation.
Other options will be explored such as finding an alternative place to stay be it supported housing – choice based letting or private rented sector.
Please contact James Alexander, Housing Services Manager - housing@wokingymca.org.uk for more details.
