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Mediation

In mediation, an independent and impartial third party discusses the issues in dispute with you and your employer. This is sometimes done separately, sometimes together - with a view to helping you both come up with a solution you accept.

Mediation is entirely voluntary, so you and your employer must agree to become involved. Sometimes the mediator will suggest their own solution, however, they cannot impose their own solution.

Mediation can take place at any stage in a dispute. It’s generally most effective if used soon after the problem has arisen.

Mediation is not a free service, although in general it is the employer who pays.

Although mediation is sometimes used as part of a grievance or disciplinary procedure, it is not just for sorting out problems between employees and employers. It can also be particularly helpful where there are disagreements or personality clashes between people within a team.

Mediators

Some organisations have their own trained in-house mediators. There are also commercial mediation providers.

In England and Wales some of these mediation providers are registered members of the Civil Mediation Council (CMC).

• Civil Mediation Council Opens new window

In Scotland some of the mediation providers are registered by the Scottish Mediation Register managed by the Scottish Mediation Network.

• Scottish Mediation Register Opens new window

A list of registered workplace mediation providers can be found on these websites. These providers declare that they meet certain standards covering training, practice development, codes of conduct, complaints handling and indemnity insurance. These are not exhaustive lists of all providers who may offer mediation services in Great Britain.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has its own separate mediation services. You can find out more about these from the Labour Relations Agency (LRA) who also offers free, confidential and impartial advice on all employment rights issues for residents of Northern Ireland.

• Labour Relations Agency Opens new window

Where to get help

Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) offers free, confidential and impartial advice on all employment rights issues.

• Acas Opens new window

Your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) can provide free and impartial advice. You can find your local CAB office in the phone book or online.

• Find your local Citizens Advice Bureau Opens new window

If you are a member of a trade union you can get help, advice and support from them.

• More about trade unions

A solicitor or advice agency may be able to help you decide the best route for you

• Seek legal advice

More useful links

• The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Opens new window
• Advice for your employer about handling discipline and grievance issues from Business Link Opens new window