Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Service (DARS)
A calm, fair and impartial way to resolve disputes when mediation has not been successful or is not suitable.
DARS (Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Service)
In disagreement with your school or Education Authority about SEND support? DARS can help — a FREE, independent service for resolving disputes. DARS (Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Service) is a FREE and independent service provided by Global Mediation.
All meetings are led by professionally trained, SEND-accredited mediators who are experienced in supporting families and education professionals through disagreement.
Why choose DARS?
DARS offers a calm, independent space for people to resolve disputes when other options haven’t worked. With a strong focus on clarity, confidentiality and fairness, it’s a trusted alternative to legal processes or prolonged conflict. We’re here to help you move forward — with transparency, professionalism and care.
How DARS works
1
Initial contact
Reach out to our DARS team to discuss your situation and whether the service is right for you.
2
Assessment
Our trained team will review the case and recommend the best resolution route — including DARS if appropriate.
3
Facilitated session
Each party is invited to share written views. A trained facilitator supports the process and prepares a written summary.
4
Resolution agreement
If appropriate, our team will prepare a formal outcome or agreement, based on the information shared.
Benefits of using DARS
Efficient resolution
Timely outcomes without the delays of formal legal routes.
Preserves relationships
Reduces hostility and supports respectful outcomes.
Flexibility
Adaptable to different needs, with clear communication throughout.
Neutral expertise
Guided by experienced facilitators who support all parties fairly and independently.
Key features of DARS
Key information
Exclusive to Northern Ireland
Tailored to the specific needs and frameworks of the region.
Experienced facilitators
Specialists with backgrounds in complex and sensitive disputes.
Impartial and confidential
Every outcome is based solely on the information shared.
Cost-effective alternative
Avoid the stress, delay and cost of lengthy legal proceedings.
When is the Service Available?
You can access the DARS service between 9:00am and 5:00pm, Monday to Friday.
We're here during the working week to support parents, carers, children and young people when you need us.
Contact DARS
If you would like to find out more, or start the process, contact the DARS team:
Contact us