All work environments will experience interpersonal disputes from time to time, and employers need processes to address such conflict effectively and consistently. Conventionally, this has meant having a grievance process to raise and investigate complaints.
UK Mediation’s Conflict Resolution Pathway is based on our 25 years’ experience of leading the way in the use of mediation and dialogue-building as a way to resolve interpersonal conflict.
It aims to:
Provide a mechanism for the early and informal resolution of interpersonal conflict
Identify when and how leaders and managers can support and empower staff in conflict resolution
Support a cultural change away from conflict resolution being a win/lose, blame-focussed process
Recognises that resolution works best at an early and informal stage, before things begin to spiral out of control
Employees are given the freedom and responsibility to manage their own working relationships
Encouraging people in dispute to collaborate, as opposed to taking up opposite sides and trying ‘to win’
Cuts down on the amount of time that HR professionals and managers have to spend on outdated procedures
Looks at how conflict is addressed: by seeking resolution rather than attributing blame
Those in dispute, HR professionals, leaders, and managers all pick up a greater level of conflict competence
It provides a route map for those involved in conflict, or for those supporting individuals in dispute.
Conflicts could include:
Allegations of low-level bullying and harassment
Perceptions of unfair or unreasonable treatment by another
Breakdowns in communication
Situations where interpersonal trust and confidence have eroded
Classic personality clashes
Allegations of serious misconduct
Suspicion of criminal acts
Serious concerns around Health and Safety
Allegations of more harmful workplace bullying, harassment, or discrimination
Contractual issues requiring adjudication or legal input
Fully incorporates UK Mediation’s own relational model of mediation:
We’re a friendly bunch here at UK Mediation and we’re always happy to discuss your requirements.
admin@ukmediation.net 0800 772 0778We’re a friendly bunch here at UK Mediation and we’re always happy to discuss your situation and offer impartial advice.
admin@ukmediation.net 0800 772 0778
