Conflict; Bullying/Harassment in the Workplace & Employment Rights Mediation
Mediation is increasingly being used in the workplace to resolve disputes and conflict.
It involves a neutral third-party bringing two sides together with the aim of reaching a mutual agreement.
Conflict in the workplace is a reality.
Research found... "the average costs to employers of dealing with Employment Tribunal claims, excluding management time is almost £20K per annum." But management time is substantial. "Businesses spend almost 10 days on average dealing with an individual claim. Additionally 33% of employers report that there are non-financial negative effects such as reduced employee motivation, performance and engagement." (CIPD, 2007 survey report “Managing Conflict at Work”)
The main causes of conflict are behaviour/conduct; performance; sickness absence; attendance; relationships between colleagues; theft/fraud; bullying/harassment and sex discrimination. (CIPD, 2007)
What can STEP HR Services do for your organisation?
- Provide an independent, impartial and qualified mediator.
- Investigate all Grievances; Conflict; Bullying and Harassment and Employment Rights complaints.
- Assess all documentation related to the issues and seek a resolution at a local organisation level.
- Provide Training and Development for managers at all levels, (line, middle and senior) to handle conflict effectively.
Why should your organisation use mediation to resolve disputes?
- Cost effective alternative for handling conflict internally rather than allowing it to be handled externally at the Employment Appeals Tribunal; Rights Commissioner; Labour Court and/or Equality Tribunal etc.
- Time: Using a mediation process can resolve the issues in a timely manner whereby both parties will sign up to their own resolution
- Problem Solving: Mediation adopts a problem-solving approach to complaints, which reduces disruption and future problems.
- Totally confidential process between the parties
- The mediation process is considered to be a fair, open and transparent whereby both parties contribute to the resolution of the dispute.
- Win-Win solutions are achieved which supports trust and confidence, leading to strong working relationships.
- Supports a working environment of increased productivity, performance, motivation and engagement when disputes are resolved effectively and in a timely manner.