» A Definition of Mediation.
Mediation is a process of dispute resolution in which an impartial third party (the mediator) facilitates a series of private and joint meeting with the parties to identify a mutually acceptable and appropriate resolution.Mediation is a voluntary, safe and confidential process which addresses the underlying (root) causes of conflict or tension. Mediators create the conditions for dialogue using a non-adversarial, non-partisan approach. The final outcome of mediation is agreed by the parties, not the mediator.
The Benefits Of Mediation.
Mediation has many benefits - not just for the parties but for their teams, managers and employers:
- Mediation places responsibility for the resolution of a dispute directly with the parties.
- Mediation creates a safe place for all sides to have their say and to be heard.
- Mediation stops disputes escalating out of control.
- Mediation reduces the stress and anxiety commonly associated with conflict.
- Mediation reduces the cost of conflict and reduces the risk of litigation.
- Mediation contributes to a more harmonious and productive working environment.
- MEDIATION WORKS!
Do You Need A Workplace Mediator?
Our mediation services provide a prompt, discrete and cost effective remedy to workplace conflicts, disputes and disagreements. Mediation can be used to resolve tension, disputes or conflict:- Between employees
- Between managers and executives
- Between employee and employer
- Within teams or groups.
- With customers, clients, suppliers, purchasers, funders etc
We resolve over 90% of disputes:
Mediation is proving to be a highly effective remedy for workplace conflict. Last year, the team at TCM increased their mediation success rate to over 90%*. This is an unprecedented success rate in mediation and is due to the commitment that we have at all stages of the process. We take the quality of our mediation activities very seriously . We firmly believe that mediation begins from the minute that you contact us and continues way beyond the parties reaching that all important resolution.* Our success rate is based on the parties achieving a signed agreement by the end of mediation.
- In 2005 we received 62 mediation referrals. We achieved a signed agreement in 59 cases.
- In 2006 we received 68 mediation referrals. We achieved a signed agreement in a staggering 66 cases.
- So far in 2007, of 48 cases passed to us, only two cases so far have ended with no agreement. That's almost 100% success.
Comprehensive Support from TCM.
Our mediators provide full support and backup to the parties for 12 MONTHS after mediation concludes (this is included in our mediation fee.) Unlike some mediation providers, whose approach is to 'cut and run', we want the agreement to be sustained as much as you do.Issues Suitable for Mediation.
Essentially any type of workplace conflict is suitable for mediation. The over-arching factor is the parties willingness to engage voluntarily in the process. At TCM we have successfully mediated in the following types of situations:- Conflicts or disagreements about working styles, roles or responsibilities
- Statutory grievances
- Allegations of bullying and/or abuses of power or authority
- Allegations of discrimination and harassment in all forms
- Conflicts arising from the allocation or distribution of resources, rewards, bonuses, salaries, etc
- Conflicts arising from the management of change, mergers, acquisitions, growth or downsizing
- Cultural conflicts arising from the culture of the firm or wider cultural differences between the parties
- Return to work situations following sickness or suspension.
- The parties do not wish to engage in mediation.
In most workplace disputes involving 2 parties, mediation tends to last for one full day. In multiple party conflicts or team disputes, mediation tends to last for two or three days (depending on severity and complexity). We provide a free and confidential advisory service, please contact us to discuss your requirements.
