A team set up to tackle tension and settle conflict in communities after the riots was starting its work today.

Bradford CommUNITY Accord is a response to a need identified in the aftermath of the disturbances in July 2001 for an intermediary service to stop problems before they build up.

Where tensions arise between groups, both sides will be referred to the scheme to talk through the issues voluntarily.

Some 14 people, aged 20 to 50, have been recruited and trained in mediation.

Project manager Mandy Lawrence said the scheme was not just to break down cultural barriers but to create links and improve relations.

She said: "The service is a key to enabling communities and agencies to identify, discuss and resolve misunderstandings and differences.

"The opportunity to communicate in a safe space and listen to others is one important feature that the service can offer."

She added that problems could be anything from who was entitled to use a community centre to friction between elderly and young people.

Bradford CommUNITY Accord is funded by the Government and supported by Bradford Vision. West Yorkshire Police and Bradford Council's community development service are key partners in managing the project, part of the district's action plan on community cohesion.

Inspector Martin Baines said the police were committed to ensuring the success of the project. He said: "Through the work of community facilitators, difficulties and tensions that arise within communities can be successfully resolved.

"This will enable stronger and more cohesive communities within Bradford."

Corine Campbell, head of community development service, said the mediators would play an important role in the district's conflict resolution initiatives.