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Mediation in the Workplace

What is mediation in the workplace?

It is a confidential and informal process where an independent third party, a mediator, works with people who have a disagreement with a working colleague. The process helps them find their own solution and reach an agreement that will either resolve the problem or improve the situation.

A workplace mediator will not take sides or pass any judgment on who is right or wrong. Mediation is voluntary so both parties have to agree to give it a go for the process to proceed.

What happens in workplace mediation?

The mediator will usually start by talking to each of the parties separately so they can put across their point of view. The mediator will then bring the parties together to constructively discuss the issue in order to resolve or improve the situation. This can be done at your place of work, at Hatch Brenner’s office in Norwich, or elsewhere, for instance, a hotel.

If the parties find it helpful, the workplace mediator can make suggestions on how to resolve the dispute. They cannot tell the parties what to do or give any legal advice.

The agreement on how to resolve the situation and work together going forward is entirely the decision of the parties involved.

At the end of workplace mediation, the parties take away a written agreement, drawn up by the mediator. The agreement is only morally binding. Details of the written agreement can only be shared with the consent of both parties and no record of what is agreed or discussed at the mediation goes onto any employee’s HR record.

What are the benefits of workplace mediation?

  • It is quick and can be arranged via your HR department within a few days. The mediation process typically takes two days or less
  • It can be less stressful and expensive than a lengthy formal process
  • It is one of the most effective interventions at the early stages of conflict
  • Workplace mediation aims to maintain and improve the working relationship

How is workplace mediation arranged?

As an employee, you can ask your HR department (or in a smaller firm, your employer) to make contact with us. While our duty of confidentiality is owed to you, the employees in dispute, we are engaged by the organisation you work for. As awareness of mediation in the workplace grows, HR departments and employers are becoming more aware of the process and may suggest it themselves

We are happy to provide further information to either employees who would like their employer to arrange mediation or an employer or HR department who is considering mediation in the workplace for a problem they have within their workforce. Call 01603 214 220 to speak to one of our approachable team members

How we
can help you

Whether you’re facing an employment tribunal, need help negotiating your contract or feel you have been subjected to discrimination in the workplace, our proactive and approachable employment law specialists take pride in providing practical, confidential advice to employees in a wide range of industries.

To find out more about our expertise, please call:


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