All of our mediators are current employees of the University and are fully trained and accredited. They mediate in pairs to provide a totally confidential, impartial service.

We understand that resolving workplace conflict can be difficult and tiring. Our accredited mediators will support both parties every step of the way. By listening carefully to what each party has to say, we will encourage parties to talk about their problems constructively and safely.

We will not make judgments or determine who is right or wrong. Insted, by using the co-mediation model and having two mediators to support you throughout the process, we can maintain a neutral and impartial approach throughout the process and support parties before, during and after mediation. We will be completely independent of both parties and have no vested interest in the outcome.

We will facilitate every step of the process. Prior to mediation we will:

• Assess the suitability of mediation when a referral is made;
• Liaise with both parties to secure an early commitment to the mediation process;
• Fully prepare for the mediation process – either on our own or with a co-mediator;
• Arrange the mediation process, booking suitable venues and ensuring any relevant paperwork is completed.

During the mediation process we will:

• Meet each party separately;
• Manage the joint meeting in a safe and controlled manner;
• Encourage participants to shift away from their adopted positions by taking account of their personal interests and underlying needs;
• Provide full and equal opportunities for participants to consider and describe the conflicts in detail;
• Engage both parties equitably in the mediation process and ensure all stages of the process are managed in a safe and controlled manner;
• Develop opportunities for participants to create mutually satisfactory and win/win outcomes to their situation.

After the mediation process we will:

• Prepare and type up the agreement /action plan;
• Undertake any necessary record keeping and evaluation as required;
• Provide ongoing support and monitoring of the mediation agreement at agreed intervals;
• Engage in reflective practice, attend CPD events and other similar developmental activities as required to keep our skills up to date.

Further information on how to become a mediator