Workplace Mediation

Mediation as a method of resolving disputes at work

Workplace mediation is a basic but strong procedure created to aid all parts of the modern employment environment by recognizing the worth of a positive work culture and productive relationships to help avoid disputes.

All public and private sector bodies should value good workplace relationships and productive employees, but unfortunately a dispute between employees or between employees and employers can happen. Managing these relationships properly with the help of a workplace mediator can stop or lessen potential disputes and minimise the chances of defending a tribunal claim, as well as reducing wasted management time.

Need for workplace mediation

Workplace mediation is a most useful option for any individual given the task of managing employee relations. A workplace mediator can listen to and ask questions to seek solutions in a constructive and private way. This can improve relations between employees as well as resolving conflicts. This can in turn lead to improved staff productivity and retention. 

Workplace mediation and the law

Workplace mediation is now encouraged by BERR (formerly the DTI) and ACAS and a brand new Employment Act 2008 has been enacted in 2009. Whereas there used to be a three stage system of written statement, meeting and appeal, there is now an ACAS code of Practice and Disciplinary Grievance Procedure. This builds upon the old one by included a definition of what is reasonable when facing problems work. There is the encouragement of workplace mediation.