Tension monitoring and resolving conflict

In order to understand the state of relations between different communities we need to be able to 'read the signs' and we need to have resources and techniques to mediate between groups and to help them to resolve conflicts when they arise. iCoCo and the Metropolitan police have worked together to develop a practical guide for Local Authorities, Police services and partner agencies on 'Understanding and monitoring tension and conflict in local communities' (2008). Whilst the initiative for this is largely Police-led, it is useful for other agencies (including Health) as it will help in our understanding of how our local communities tick. The guide describes seven steps that need to be followed to set up a tension monitoring system:

• Set up a tension monitoring group and identify lead officers
• Gain commitment and buy-in
• Use the "Experienced, Evidenced, Potential (EEP) system" (or ensure you draw on evidence and experience).
• Use the Community Impact Assessment process
• Establish governance arrangements
• Establish reporting arrangements
• Develop an annual plan

It then describes four tools for understanding local community dynamics:

• Knowing the community - understanding how people are feeling
• Capturing and pooling what we know
• Making the best use of 'open sources'
• Using data more effectively

And finally it proposes a range of interventions to respond to tensions:

• Problem solving
• Community meetings
• Community facilitators and 'honest brokers'
• Conflict resolution
• Mediation
• When to work separately and when to work in partnership
• Communications to promote cohesion

 

In Tower Hamlets a project called 'RESOLVE' has been run by the council's mediation service and the youth service rapid response team. It recruited and trained young people in mediation and facilitation. It has helped to reduce tensions because of its presence "on the street" and by supporting young people who became role models, in some cases by going on to become youth advocates (LGA, 2004).

In Slough a project called 'Aik Saath' was dedicated to promoting peace and racial harmony through teaching conflict resolution. It works with young people aged 14 to 20, conducting training in schools and running workshops to raise awareness of conflict, how it might be manifested, effects of conflict and how to resolve it (LGA, 2004).