Workplaces are changing. Strategies for building relationships and preventing conflict at work are gaining importance. The Government's plan to repeal the statutory grievance and disciplinary process in April 2009 opened the way for organisations to embrace the concept of mediation in the workplace.

You should read this handbook to learn more about:

 
This handbook is an ideal tool for line managers, HR professionals, trade union representatives, mediators and employment lawyers.

You should read the guide if:

How the Guide is structured

The guide is split across three main themes. First, is gives an overview of how the world of work has changed and how it continues to change. It outlines how, as a result of these changes, there has been a huge impact on employee relations in the workplace. There is increased speed, tension, stress, anxiety, fear and worry. A few of these key areas of change are covered.

Second, the guide covers an overview of conflict. It covers what it is, what it’s not, how it can be spotted, how it can be managed and how it can be prevented.

Third, the guide provides an overview of mediation within the workplace. It covers what it is, its background, its current status as a dispute resolution tool, how it can be used and incorporated within organisations and its likely future use within the world of work. The guide includes a number of case studies. All the case studies are based on real-life events but names have been changed and sectors kept deliberately broad so that parties and organisations cannot be identified. The guide integrates theoretical principles with practical techniques and applications.