Workplace Mediation

Disputes are a fact of our working lives. If not effectively dealt with they can quickly escalate and lead to

• Stress
• Absenteeism
• Low productivity
• Sickness

all of which CAN result in reducing your companies profitability.

TRIBUNALS, LEGAL FEES, LOST PRODUCTION, RECRUITMENT and TRAINING COSTS and the hidden costs ofMANAGEMENT TIME can cost your company dearly.

Workplace mediation is recognised as a potent tool in dealing with the enormous range of disputes that inevitably occur in any place of work. From bullying to grievance procedures skilled mediators can guide disputants through conflict management procedures and enable them to resolve or cope with issues in a more positive way, saving huge amounts that would otherwise be used in: lost hours, lost production, stress, sickness and disciplinary procedures.

Why use an external mediator?

Using external mediator provides an extra dimension in resolving a dispute. It allows the parties to be able to talk freely about their situation without fear that their confidences could in any way be compromised or used against them. This in turn enhances the chances of the genuine reasons for disputes being uncovered and in achieving a lasting settlement. It allows management to detach itself from the problem; important where management style may be an issue, and demonstrates that mediation as part of grievance procedures shows transparency and a willingness to compromise.

How workplace mediation works

Mediation takes place away from the participants’ work area. It offers the opportunity for both sides to be listened to and heard, to re-establish communication and to agree on how the current situation can be resolved. It is a voluntary process, informal yet structured and where people really want to sort out their differences, there is a very good chance that an agreement can be reached, either written or verbal, that could lead to a positive future.