The short answer
Your Brighter Future Mediation session takes place on Zoom. Click the link in your confirmation email a few minutes early, join from a quiet private room, and turn on your camera and microphone. You do not need a Zoom account, and you can join from a computer, phone or tablet.
| What you need | A computer, phone or tablet with a camera and microphone |
|---|---|
| Account needed | No, you only need the link from your confirmation email |
| Where to join | A quiet, private room with good light |
| Recording | Not allowed, by anyone, in any form |
| Help on the day | Call us on 0333 240 8038 |
What do I need to do before my session?
Install Zoom and check your camera, microphone and internet the day before, so the session starts on time.
- On a computer, download Zoom from the Zoom download centre. On a phone or tablet, install the Zoom app from your app store.
- Check your camera works and your microphone or headphones pick up your voice.
- Use a stable wifi or wired connection. Sit close to your router if you can.
- Choose a quiet, private room with good lighting, where no one can see or hear the session.
How do I join my Zoom session?
Click the Zoom link in your confirmation email, or enter the meeting ID and passcode we sent you.
- Open the link a few minutes before your start time.
- Choose to join through the Zoom app or your web browser.
- Click Start video and select your camera.
- Click Join audio, then Join with computer audio. Test your speaker and microphone if prompted.
- Use the microphone icon to mute and unmute yourself.
What are the rules during the session?
Your session is confidential, so you need to be alone in a private space and nothing may be recorded.
- Confidentiality. Be on your own, somewhere private. Recording of any kind, including audio, video or screenshots, is strictly prohibited.
- One voice at a time. Please let each person finish speaking.
- Breakout rooms. If you are in a joint session, your mediator may move you to a private room. Follow their instructions and accept the prompt when it appears.
What if something goes wrong?
Most problems are fixed in the Zoom settings or by rejoining. If you still cannot connect, call us on 0333 240 8038.
| No video | Check your camera is selected in Zoom video settings and not in use by another app |
|---|---|
| No sound | Check the right microphone and speaker are selected in Zoom audio settings |
| Connection drops | Move closer to your router, use a wired connection, or leave and rejoin using the same link |
| Still stuck | Visit the Zoom help centre or call 0333 240 8038 |
What happens when the session ends?
Click Leave meeting to exit, then follow any next steps your mediator gives you. We confirm next steps by email.
Common questions
Do I need a Zoom account?
No. You can join with the link from your confirmation email, through the Zoom app or your browser.
Can I join on my phone?
Yes. Install the Zoom app first, and prop your phone up so your camera stays steady for the whole session.
Can someone sit with me during the session?
No, not unless your mediator has agreed it in advance. Sessions are confidential, so you need to be alone in a private space.
Can I record the session?
No. Recording of any kind is strictly prohibited, for everyone taking part.
What if I cannot connect at the start time?
Try rejoining with the same link. If that does not work, call us on 0333 240 8038 straight away so we can let your mediator know.
Need help before your session?
If something is not working on the day, call us so we can let your mediator know. For anything else, send us a message. Getting ready for your first meeting? Read how to prepare for your MIAM, or see all client guides.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.
