Mediation Frequently Asked Questions

When relationships break down at work it can be difficult to handle and can often spiral out of all proportion.  Mediation is a process that aims to help people in dispute work out a fair, amicable and realistic agreement with the assistance of an independent and impartial third party.

If you are experiencing workplace conflict or wish to find out more about mediation please contact Support Line 01732 526910.  Alternatively you may find it helpful to access the frequently asked questions below.

What actually happens?

Once everyone has agreed that they wish to participate they are asked to define the problem as they see it and what outcome they would like to see as a result of the mediation. If the parties are willing to engage in mediation this can be the first step towards resolution.

Who is involved?

Workplace mediation is offered through Support Line by a team of professional and experienced mediators. Some of them are KCC employees and the others are external. The mediators have no stake in the issues or outcomes of the mediation and will therefore be independent and impartial. The mediator is merely there to guide parties through the process and enable constructive communication.

The parties involved. All of who will have an opportunity to put forward their version of events and all will be encouraged to look at a way forward.

Can anyone else attend?

A friend or Union representative may accompany each party for support but only with the consent of the participants involved in the mediation. Only the parties and mediator will be able to contribute to the mediation meeting.

How does the mediation work?

The mediator usually makes telephone contact with all parties to introduce themselves and arrange a time for an initial one to one briefing meeting. This meeting provides an opportunity for each individual to talk through the problem and to be clear about what they want from the mediation process. If everyone agrees all parties are then invited to a joint meeting.

At the joint meeting each party will get a chance to talk about their situation without interruption. Then there will be an open discussion and the mediators will help the parties decide what the important issues are, The Mediators act as facilitators and manage the process but it is the disputants who agree what should make up any agreement reached.  During meetings ground rules are agreed and key points are noted which form the basis of an agreement.

How much time will it take?

Individuals need to set aside around two- two and half-hours for the joint mediation.

Is mediation confidential?

Workplace mediation is a completely confidential service within Support Line.  Any notes that may be taken are destroyed after the final meeting and no details of what has taken place are kept on file.

If an agreement is reached it is up to the parties to decide whether anyone else receives a copy of the agreement.

Is mediation always appropriate?

No there are times when mediation is not appropriate:

• When there has been serious misconduct resulting in the need for disciplinary action to be taken
• When one party refuses to take part
• When one or more participants demonstrate that they intend to hold a grudge or cause harm to the other
• When someone is not committed to achieve a workable solution

How do I access mediation?

Please contact Support Line who are responsible for co-ordinating the mediation services and will be happy to discuss any further concerns or questions you may have.  You can contact them on 01732 526910

Alternatively you can speak to Human Resources or speak directly to your Manager who may refer your case to the Support Line Mediation Service.