Mediation
What is mediation how it can it help?
Mediation is a tool to resolve workplace disagreements or disputes.
It is a structured, but more informal, approach to conflict resolution and can also be referred to as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
It is facilitated by a ‘mediator’ who acts impartially throughout the process. The mediator’s role is to help all parties involved find a solution they can agree on.
Mediation is:
- voluntary and confidential
- flexible and informal
- morally rather than legally binding
When should you undertake mediation?
It’s best to start mediation as soon as possible to prevent the situation from escalating and getting worse.
However, mediation can be used at any point if there is no open grievance.
For example, mediation is also sometimes used by employers to repair and rebuild relationships after an internal disciplinary or grievance process has taken place.
What are the benefits?
Mediation can be used to resolve a wide variety of issues that present in the workplace such as:
- breakdowns in communication or relationships
- bullying and/or harassment claims
- personality clashes
Using mediation as an approach can:
- reduce the risk of having to undertake formal processes such as internal grievance procedures and external employment tribunals
- reduce the risk of valuable employees being impacted by worry and stress resulting in repeated or long-term leaves of absence or them choosing to leave the organisation
- reduce costs – mediation as a preventative early intervention is much more cost-effective than having to meet the costs of participating in an employment tribunal
Mediation outcomes are not suggested or imposed by the mediator – rather they are discussed and agreed by the parties involved.
The mediator will also agree, in partnership with all parties, what information can be shared outside the mediation and how.
If an agreement isn’t reached, anything that’s been said during the mediation must be kept confidential and cannot be used in future processes.
Why choose Lena?
Lena’s fully qualified and insured mediators are experienced in working empathetically with organisations and their employees.
Our mediators work collaboratively to resolve workplace difficulties by supporting the parties involved to reach mutually acceptable and beneficial outcomes.
We recently used the mediation service and were very impressed. The booking process was quick and easy, and the communication with [Lena] and the mediator was excellent. They demonstrated professionalism, understanding, and provided clear guidance throughout the process.