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What is workplace mediation and how does it work? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: What is workplace mediation and how does it work?
• 0:04
  SPEAKER_00: Workplace mediation is a confidential structured process that helps people resolve disagreements or conflict at work with the support of an impartial third person.
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  SPEAKER_00: The aim is to help those involved understand each other's perspectives, improve communication and find a way forward that everyone can work with.
• 0:28
  SPEAKER_00: Mediation is not about deciding who is right or wrong, blaming someone or punishing them.
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  SPEAKER_00: It focuses on resolving the conflict and improving the workplace relationship where possible.
• 0:43
  SPEAKER_00: Workplace mediation can be useful where there are communication difficulties, personality clashes, conflict between colleagues and manager and employee disagreements.
• 0:58
  SPEAKER_00: Workplace mediation works by having an initial conversation.
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  SPEAKER_00: The mediator speaks to each person individually to understand the situation and hear their concerns.
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  SPEAKER_00: Each person has an opportunity to explain how they have experienced the conflict.
• 1:16
  SPEAKER_00: The mediator ensures that both people have a fair opportunity to speak and helps identify the underlying issues, clarify misunderstandings, and explore practical ways to improve the situation.
• 1:32
  SPEAKER_00: If possible, the people involved agree on actions they can take such as communicating more respectfully, clarifying responsibilities or arranging regular check-ins.
• 1:47
  SPEAKER_00: There are benefits to workplace mediation.
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  SPEAKER_00: It can reduce workplace tension and stress, encourages people to take responsibility for their behaviour, it can prevent disagreements from escalating and also gives people a voice in finding their own solutions.
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  SPEAKER_00: Mediation is usually voluntary and confidential.
• 2:13
  SPEAKER_00: Agreements are generally not legally binding and is also not a substitute for a formal investigation.
• 2:22
  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking of harming yourself or feel unsafe, please call your local emergency number or crisis line.