Mediation

Workplace mediation is a transformative discussion between colleagues, which is expertly facilitated by a mediator who supports the individuals to resolve their conflict. Jayne uses the facilitative model of workplace mediation, based on the ACAS model (“Mediation: An Approach to Resolving Workplace Issues” – ACAS/CIPD, February 2013), where the mediator plays an active role in guiding the process, but the parties decide and own the decision.

The facilitative model focuses on exploring the individual’s underlying needs and interests. Jayne will facilitate discussion to concentrate on discussing underlying feelings and support the participants to increase their understanding of each other. Jayne will then support the participants in focussing on ways to build on this enhanced understanding, which potentially leads to resolution.

Mediation is:

  • Informal
  • Voluntary
  • Based on informed consent
  • Confidential (unless safeguarding or other exceptional issues apply)

Before the mediation sessions take place:

  • Jayne would discuss the situation with the manager commissioning the work to make sure that the mediation is appropriate and bespoke to the situation
  • Jayne may then speak to the parties individually before the mediation session, to explain the process and address any concerns

The actual mediation process is as follows:

  • Individual discussions with each party:
    • During these discussions, Jayne builds a rapport with each party, ensuring the individual feels safe and supported, before using skilled techniques to empower the individual to explore their underlying needs and fears, thoughts and feelings
    • Jayne will use these techniques to enable the individual to explore what they want to achieve from the mediation
    • At the end of this discussion, Jayne will establish if the individual is able to consent to go ahead to the group mediation session
  • Group discussion with all parties:
    • The group mediation session follows a loose agenda
    • Jayne will actively facilitate discussions, using a number of skills to enable the individuals to openly share their feelings and thoughts, and gain an understanding of each other
    • These discussions will enable the individuals to develop empathy and connection with each other
    • Through skilled intervention, such discussions will often move to resolution
  • Some weeks after the group discussion:
    • Jayne will hold a consolidation meeting with the parties to ensure that the conflict has been resolved appropriately and facilitate further discussions on how the working relationship can further progress and improve