CIArb confirmed as a registered provider for new Fixed-Fee Mediation Scheme

The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) has been confirmed as a registered provider on the new Civil Mediation Council (CMC) Fixed-Fee Mediation Scheme (FFMS). The Scheme allows members of the public with claims of less than £50,000 to find a mediator on a fixed-fee, fixed-time basis, with fees set on a sliding scale - depending on the value of the claim.

As a registered provider, CIArb will direct parties to CIArb-qualified mediators who will deal with the dispute in accordance with the scheme guidelines. How the mediation is conducted is to be decided by the individual mediator, although the service is expected to be delivered remotely in line with the low-cost, low-disruption ethos behind it.

CIArb’s Director-General Catherine Dixon said:

“Mediation is a vital component of the suite of ADR mechanisms provided by CIArb members, and we are delighted to be a part of this new service for lower value disputes. Together with the CIArb/CEDR Pandemic Business Dispute Resolution Service aimed at parties facing COVID-19-related disputes, our involvement in this scheme underlines our commitment to ensuring access to redress for all parties, big or small, and allowing as many people as possible to make use of the expertise of CIArb members.”