Workplace Mediation
Workplace mediation is a structured process in which an impartial person, the mediator, helps participants in the workplace to resolve difficulties that have arisen between them. Engaging with mediation is entirely voluntary, participants can leave the mediation at any point and it is not part of a legal/formal process. The process allows participants to come to their own agreement, as the mediator I facilitate the communication between them to support them in their mediation.
The Process
Stage 1:
I will have a private and confidential meeting with each separate participant. At each of these initial meetings, the participant is given an explanation of workplace mediation and the opportunity to ask questions. I will ask the participant to discuss in detail how they see the situation and what they feel about it. I will clarify the main issues and how to explore ways to resolve them. At the end of the meeting, I will confirm if the participant wishes to continue with mediation and, if so, how we will proceed.
Stage 2:
A meeting is then arranged bringing the participants together either online or face to face. This meeting can only take place if the participants involved choose to participate and agree to the meeting arrangements and procedures. These meetings are structured with equal time for each participant. Ground rules are set for the meeting. The issues to be discussed at the meeting are clarified and confirmed. The participants involved have the right to end the meeting at any time, take a break or request separate meetings between one participant and the mediator. The mediator works through these issues with the participants, helping them to communicate, negotiate and work towards their own agreement. Any agreement reached is the responsibility of the parties themselves and is not legally binding.
Stage 3:
At the end of the session, the participants will put in writing what they have agreed and will both sign it. This will be shared with the company - with the agreement of the participants.
Confidentiality
The process is confidential and without prejudice. Nothing that is said by the participants will be shared with anyone without their express permission. The agreement is not legally binding as the mediation process is a tool to try before a situation becomes a formal process, and, in order to facilitate open and honest communication the process remains confidential and cannot be used at tribunal.