A family mediation service has extended their office lease at Business Central Darlington after a successful first six months.
Stepping Stones has been providing mediation services for over 19 years, working in various locations and after initially taking just a six month lease they have extended their contract at Business Central for a whole year to allow them to explore further opportunities in the area.
The service provides a process in which people involved in disputes, due to family breakdown, can work with an impartial mediator. The mediator helps them to communicate better and reach their own informed decisions about issues relating to children, property and finance or a combination of both, without the need to attend court. The mediation sessions are confidential and provide scope for discussion in a controlled environment.
Trish Craggs, managing director explains:
“Although we have a well-established base in Durham, we recognised the need to develop family mediation in Darlington.
“We have an excellent reputation for our professional and caring service and many of our clients are referred by solicitors or recommended by friends or family that we’ve helped in the past. We also have the benefit of a legal aid contract which means that mediation is completely free for those who qualify. We are focused on reaching those who need our services in Darlington.”
Business Central is located in the Central Park Enterprise Zone, Darlington. The North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) and Darlington Borough Council are working together on the £6.6 million project which has been supported with funding from the European Regional Development Fund and the Homes and Communities Agency, Trish adds:
“When I heard that the BIC managed these premises in Darlington I decided to take a look. I know the BIC have a good reputation and I was pleased to see that the vibrant atmosphere and excellent services had been replicated at Business Central. The location is ideal for our service and for clients too.”
Vanessa Wood, centre manager added:
“It’s fantastic to hear that Trish has now extended her contract with our centre. April sees our first year in business and it is promising to see that businesses are renewing their leases and remaining with us. We have created our own business community here and it’s great to have Stepping Stones in that mix.”