Low-level neighbour disputes can take up a lot of time and lead to bigger problems for housing associations. It’s important to resolve them as quickly and effectively as you can.
Low-level neighbour disputes is a term we use to cover the less serious cases. Situations like:
- Neighbourhood friends falling out
- Children falling out
- Disputes over communal areas
- Noise
- Boundaries
- Parking
- Differences in lifestyles or expectations
- Cultural differences
- Tenants just not liking each other
These issues are less likely to have a lasting impact on people’s lives than say an ASB case or a domestic violence case, for example. However, we’ve seen first-hand that these types of issues are taking up a disproportionate amount of housing associations’ time. Time that staff could spend on more important matters.
It can also be more difficult to resolve petty problems with your usual dispute resolution methods, which compounds the issue.
Related article: Low-Level Neighbour Disputes: The Impact on Housing Associations
Housing associations, local authorities and police also report the following issues when it comes to handling low-level disputes:
- These cases can be harder to resolve as it can be difficult to take any action
- Increased tenant anxiety, which can lead to further problems
- Tenant expectation – they often expect authorities to sort out their problems rather than taking ownership themselves
How Conflict Coaching can help
Conflict Coaching involves us working one-to-one with your tenants to empower them to resolve their own problems. This not only addresses any current issues but equips them with the skills they need to prevent and resolve any future conflicts.
This is the answer to saving time – as a housing association you don’t need to be involved, simply refer cases to us as required. A third party often has more influence too as an outside agency. We’re here to help both parties which eradicates the ‘tenant vs association’ mentality, which is a powerful way to neutralise problems fast.
The role of mediation
As mediators we usually take a slightly different approach when it comes to low-level disputes as there are certain tactics that can bring about an immediate resolution. Often these issues arise from simple misunderstandings.
We always seek to find out why the issue arose in the first place and take the case from there with various strategies at our disposal.
Upcoming webinar: How Can Mediation & Conflict Coaching Tackle Low-Level Neighbour Disputes?
Next week on Thursday 10th February we’re going to be sharing all our insights for free in our upcoming webinar.
In the webinar we’re going to cover:
- A look at the different types of low-level neighbour disputes
- The impact handling these disputes is having on housing associations
- An introduction to conflict coaching
- How mediation and conflict coaching can help prevent issues from escalating
- Real-world examples of resolved cases
Kim Logan, our CEO, will host the webinar alongside our expert panel made up of:
- Liz Smith – Head of ASB, Stockport Homes
- Darren Burton – Head of Housing Consultancy Services, Forbes Solicitors
- Marie Coombes – Conflict Coaching Specialist, We Restore Calm
It’s free to attend and we’re sure you will find it a really valuable way to spend an hour of your time.
To find out more and to book your spot, simply head to this page. We look forward to seeing you on the day!
