Mediators on standby to deal with behaviour referrals rise

A CRACKDOWN on antisocial behaviour in the Lothians has left council chiefs expecting a rise in referrals to a neighbour mediation service.

East Lothian Council has set up its own team to tackle disorder in the community, as well as a helpline to report problems.

Now they are anticipating an increase in the number of people referred to council experts who work to resolve disputes between neighbours over issues such as noise, abusive behaviour, parking and pets.

Six part-time members of staff, supported by a pool of trained volunteers, deal with around 80 referrals a year.

Lesley Fairley, from the service, said: "We're seeing a real change in people's perceptions about how to sort out their difficulties."