Mediation is a voluntary process led by an impartial third party to resolve conflict. Conflict can occur in any employment relationship and is best dealt with early at source. If left unchecked, it can fester and escalate, potentially leading to grievance and discipline procedures or employment tribunals. Mediation avoids these more formal and costlier routes by guiding participants towards reaching mutually acceptable solutions.
This factsheet looks at workplace conflict, how mediation can help resolve different disputes, and what it entails. It outlines the process, including what sort of situations mediation can help with, who should be involved, and when mediation should be called upon. Importantly, it also considers when mediation might not be appropriate. Finally, it offers guidance on implementing mediation.
This factsheet was last updated by Jonny Gifford, Senior Adviser for Organisational Behaviour, CIPD
A central focus of Jonny’s work is applying behavioural science insights to core aspects of people management. Recently he has led programmes of work doing this in the areas of recruitment, reward and performance management.
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