Mediation is a structured process whereby an impartial mediator facilitates communication between those in dispute in order for them to understand each other better and for them to come up with mutually acceptable solutions that will improve the working relationship in the future.

• Confidentiality
• Voluntary
• ‘Solution/Agreement’ focussed
• Disputants offer the solution themselves
• Mediator is impartial

• Reduce staff turnover
• Less costly than tribunals
• Less acrimonious and time-consuming than formal dispute resolutions
• Improved workplace morale
• Improved working relationships

How Mediation Works

Stage1

The mediator meets with the individuals concerned on their own for about one hour each. The purpose is to put them at ease and allow them a safe space to explore what they see as the main issue, their feelings, the impact the situation is having on them, their motivation for seeking a solution and what they want from Stage 2.

Stage 2

The mediator meets with both the individuals together for about 2 hours.  The aim of this meeting is for each side to hear the point of view of the other person. We work hard to promote understanding on both sides and to help them realise that it is in the interests of all to come up with a workable solution. We do not dwell on past events, but on behaviour patterns. At the end of this stage each asks the other what they want of them and states what they are prepared to offer. Each individual signs a behaviour agreement.

Stage 3

The mediator meets with both parties to review progress. This happens 1-4 weeks later, depending on the workplace situation. At this stage the agreement may need to be adjusted.