Solace Enterprises and CEDR Solve have launched a mediation scheme for local authorities. It will cover cases under £50,000 where litigation proceedings have commenced or are expected, and all other disputes relating to service provision, relationships with external organisations or differences between officers or with members (excluding litigation in excess of £50,000 or employment tribunal cases). They aim to offer a big discount on normal rates. Solace managing director Andrew Coleman said: “We aim to encourage greater use of mediation, not just as a means of avoiding litigation, but in a whole range of disputes where both parties want to stay in charge of events.”