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Mediation

 

Mediation is a voluntary process that involves establishing and managing social connections and resolving disputes. It includes the participation of an impartial, independent, and trained third party in facilitating exchanges between individuals or institutions to improve their relationship or manage a dispute between them.

 

The three key points of mediation are:

An active discussion and open listening to different points of view

Guidance by a mediator

A solution that meets the needs of each party

Definitions

Definition of Mediation:

 

Overall, mediation is primarily defined as an ethical communication process based on the responsibility and autonomy of the participants, where a third party—impartial, independent, without decision-making or consultative power, with only the authority recognised by the mediating parties—facilitates through confidential discussions the establishment or reestablishment of social connection, prevention, or resolution of the situation in question.

What is Mediation About?

Mediation involves the intervention of third parties (mediators) to:

 

  • Establish or restore communication between people in conflict.
  • Encourage the creation of new connections and assist them in finding their own solution to their differences.

What is the Role of Mediators?

  • Mediators are neither judges nor arbitrators.
  • They do not provide lessons either.

 

In a conflict where each party holds its ground ans un conflit, the intervention of mediators can help unlock the situation through listening and dialogue.

 

The mediator is a qualified individual attentive to the interests of each party. They structure the course of meetings, ensuring a climate of dignity allowing for mutual understanding. The mediator is bound by professional secrecy.

What effects can mediation bring to you?

  • Reappropriation of the conflict by the involved parties
  • Accountability for the solutions
  • Transformation of relationships
  • The opportunity to transition from a “destructive conflict approach” to a “constructive conflict approach.”
  • The possibility of devising a “win-win” solution
  • The opportunity to find a “tailored” solution.

The role of the SNJ

It is often impossible to avoid conflict situations. Therefore, even during the au pair’s stay, there might be instances where the au pair and the host family have different opinions. We provide advice on how to handle these situations and offer tools for conflict resolution.

Mutual tolerance is necessary, especially at the beginning of the stay. 

It’s mainly in the initial weeks that both the au pair and the host family need to exhibit tolerance and flexibility in the face of the new situation. At the commencement of the placement, numerous questions may arise on both sides. Both the host family and the au pair must demonstrate patience and understanding toward each other.

 

The cultural exchange often entails potential language barriers. The host family should remember that expressing oneself in a foreign language requires courage and practice on the part of the au pair.

 

The considerable distance between Luxembourg and the au pair’s home country can undoubtedly lead to homesickness. But take heart! After a brief adjustment phase and upon initiating contacts with peers and locals of the same age, the groundwork is laid for a unique experience.

 

Considering that every individual is different and perceives circumstances differently, it’s possible that au pairs and host families might encounter challenges during their stay. This may include misunderstandings, varying expectations, and cultural shocks.

 

Thus, it can be beneficial for host families to learn how to communicate effectively with their au pair to provide support during difficult situations or moments.

Here’s how to master au pair issues

The key to resolving most everyday problems is straightforward communication between the au pair and the host family. Openness, tolerance, and honesty are crucial. It’s essential for each party to consider the situation objectively and strive for a compromise.

 

We strongly recommend both the host family and the au pair maintain a robust communication line. The au pair program values openness and honesty, and problems may arise if either party expects something without expressing it. This lack of communication might result in difficulty for both parties to connect effectively.

 

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you feel the situation is escalating. Our service is free, and we encourage you not to be ashamed or hesitate to request mediation.

 

The process is simple: send us an email, expressing in your own words your current perspective on the situation. We’ll promptly respond, offering different available dates and times to work together on a solution. We hope this guidance assists you and wish you a delightful stay.

 

We’ll promptly respond, offering different available dates and times to work together on a solution. We hope this guidance assists you and wish you a delightful stay.