Since its establishment in 2003, the Gibraltar Citizens Advice Bureau (GCAB) has significantly evolved its services to meet the diverse needs of the Gibraltar community. Among these essential services is mediation, a vital form of alternative dispute resolution designed to avoid the costs and adversities associated with traditional legal proceedings. 

A statement continued: "Mediation at GCAB offers a constructive pathway for resolving disputes, focusing on amicable solutions for issues such as neighbour conflicts, separation matters and employer-employee disputes. To date, the Bureau has trained four accredited mediators who have successfully facilitated approximately 80 mediation sessions, underscoring the effectiveness of this approach in fostering cooperation and understanding. 

"Our mediation services are free, confidential and impartial, available to all members of the public," said Ms. Pili Rodriguez, Founder and Chief Executive of Gibraltar Citizens Advice. "We have seen a remarkable interest from both private and public sector organizations across Gibraltar, highlighting the growing recognition of mediation as a valuable tool for conflict resolution." 

“In addition to general mediation, all GCAB mediators have received specialized training in child-inclusive mediation. This ensures that children's voices are heard during parental separations, emphasizing the Bureau’s commitment to holistic and family-centered solutions."

Ms. Rodriguez elaborated, "A court or tribunal typically judges a situation as a 'win or lose,' often resulting in a monetary solution. Mediation, however, transcends this binary outcome, allowing for more creative and transformative solutions. These can include maintaining relationships, issuing apologies, or providing ongoing services as part of the agreement. Transformative mediation seeks to change the dynamics between parties—something that courts are unable to achieve." 

The Gibraltar Citizens Advice Bureau remains dedicated to enhancing community well-being through innovative services like mediation. By providing accessible and effective dispute resolution options, GCAB is committed to fostering a more harmonious and cost-effective approach to conflictive situations within our community. 

For more information about the mediation services offered by the Gibraltar Citizens Advice Bureau, please visit their website or contact them directly.