What is mediation?
Mediation is a constructive and common sense approach which produces realistic and practical solutions. It aims to offer a safe environment where people can talk through any issues or concerns they have with a trained mediator. Mediators explore the issues individuals present, with a view to bringing those in conflict together to jointly agree how they might resolve their differences and move forward.
Mediation is:
- Confidential: No personal records are kept and participants and mediators both agree not to discuss what takes place during sessions with anyone else without prior consent;
- Voluntary: It’s your choice if you wish to take part in mediation;
- Facilitated: The process is facilitated by an independent trained mediator or a pair of trained mediators;
- Informal: Taking part in mediation will not affect your right to raise a formal complaint if you wish to do so;
- Impartial: Mediators do not take sides, make decisions or recommendations; the power to make decisions is with the individuals involved.
Mediation can reduce tension, anger and misunderstandings and can help in a variety of conflict situations between:
- two colleagues in the workplace;
- staff and managers;
- students and tutors;
- students in Halls and
- perceptions of harassment, discrimination or bullying.