Workplace Mediation FAQs
“Caroline has a natural ability to hear key issues and distil them in clear language. Her calm, reassuring presence really helped to put me at ease.”
What is workplace mediation?
Workplace mediation is a confidential, informal and voluntary process that provides an opportunity for people experiencing conflict in the workplace to openly talk through issues with an impartial mediator in order to find a way forward.
Caroline can deliver mediation in-person or online.
What cases can be referred to workplace mediation?
A wide range of conflicts and disputes can be resolved by mediation. Workplace mediation cases typically include issues related to: relationship breakdowns; personality clashes; communication problems; sickness absence due to work-related stress; allegations of bullying and harassment; allegations of discrimination. A referral may also be made as a post-grievance recommendation.
Why consider workplace mediation?
It’s effective. Mediation allows people to share their experiences and be heard – and then helps them to find practical solutions that feel fair and workable for everyone involved
It’s time-efficient. Most mediations are completed within one working day – which makes it a timely and cost-effective option compared to the alternatives
It’s flexible. Mediation can be introduced at any stage of a conflict or dispute – though the earlier the better!
It’s future-focused. Although people will inevitably talk about past experiences and current situations, the objective of the mediation is to ultimately help the parties to find a way forward
It creates happier and healthier working environments – which in turn supports increased engagement, motivation, productivity and performance
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. At the start of the process, the two parties involved in the mediation will both sign an agreement not to disclose any information discussed at the mediation without the prior express permission of the other person. All aspects of the mediation process and the mediation meetings are bound by this confidentiality. In addition, Caroline will not disclose any information that is discussed during the mediation.
The individuals involved may decide to develop a written agreement as part of the mediation. In this case, it is for the two parties to agree whether they wish to share this with anyone else.
What is the role of the mediator?
Caroline is highly skilled at helping people communicate more effectively with each other. Objective and impartial, she will support all parties involved in the mediation and will not judge, criticise, take sides, interrogate or tell the individuals involved what they should do.
Throughout the mediation, Caroline’s role to help the individuals involved to gain clarity around the situation, to facilitate a conversation between the individuals and to help them reach a resolution that is mutually acceptable.
The individuals involved in the mediation determine the outcome of the process – not the mediator.
What if the mediation ‘doesn’t work’?
There is no obligation on the two parties to reach an agreement. If they feel that mediation has not/cannot resolve their dispute, they have the option to use alternative routes (eg workplace measures or legal procedures).
Whether they reach an agreement or not, the mediation process will remain confidential and Caroline cannot be called upon to provide evidence at any subsequent proceedings.
If my organisation asks me to attend a mediation, do I have to do it?
No. Meditation is a voluntary process. If you are unsure about attending the mediation or you have questions or concerns, please contact Caroline so that she can talk them through with you.
What can I expect from attending mediation?
Generally, the process is as follows:
Caroline will contact you before the day of the mediation to outline the process and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
You will then receive a pre-mediation questionnaire, which encourages you to reflect on your reasons for attending mediation and what you would like to get out of the mediation.
On the day of the mediation, you will have an individual meeting with Caroline to help you to get clarity on your situation and what you would like from the mediation process. The other party will also have an individual meeting.
Next, there is a joint meeting where Caroline will facilitate a conversation between you and the other person involved. She will support both of you to explore the key issues and to help work towards reaching an agreement that feels fair and workable for both of you.
The people directly involved in the conflict are generally the best people to resolve it. Therefore, if one or both parties wish to bring a representative, colleague, friend or family member with them to the mediation, this is only possible during the individual meeting and they must inform Caroline in advance.
An in-person mediation is typically facilitated over one full working day. Online mediations may be facilitated in smaller sessions over a number of days.
How do I find out more or book a workplace mediation?
To discuss or book a workplace mediation, please contact Caroline Martin on 07983 413264 or use our contact form.