Workplace Mediation Explained | Cumbria & North Lancashire
Information for clients
The objective of mediation is for a neutral, independent mediator to assist people who are in conflict to resolve their differences, help them find their own solution and reach a mutual agreement to resolve or improve the situation. The use of mediation is being encouraged by the BIS (Business, Innovation and Skills) organisation and ACAS as a means of resolving disputes.
What are the benefits of using workplace mediation?
- Brings efficiencies - management time is better employed
- Is quick – mediation can be arranged quickly and resolution can be achieved in days or weeks rather than months or years
- Mediation meetings usually take one to two days maximum.
- Can be considerably cheaper - and less stressful than defending an employment tribunal case, although it is not entirely stress free
- Is future focused – and will not dwell on the past
- Gives ownership – the process is actively managed by the parties
- Develops understanding - mediation can get to the issues which contributed to the creation of the dispute
- Is confidential – nothing told to the mediator will be passed on to anyone else unless parties want it to be. And issues discussed during mediation can’t normally be used in any later company procedures or tribunal action
- Is an opportunity - for more creative solutions than those available through formal procedures to be explored and tested
- Aims to maintain – the employment relationship. The parties are more likely to abide by the solution since they design and agree to it
When can I use mediation?
- At any time before or after formal proceedings have started as long as both parties genuinely want to see an end to the dispute or disagreement.
Training your managers in Basic Mediation Skills
We can also train your managers in basic mediation skills to deal more effectively with day-to-day issues. We will put together a programme to enhance their skills in the following key areas:
- Problem Identification
- Open Questioning
- Strategies for Active Listening
- Reframing skills
- Displaying Empathy
- Strategies for moving forward
If you would like to discuss our mediation service or training for your managers in basic mediation skills please contact Angela Hayhurst on 015395 51961 or 07909 791309.
Alternatively email us at angela@locumhr.co.uk
