Workplace Mediation Service
Resolving workplace disputes constructively, confidentially, and cost-effectively – helping businesses maintain harmony and productivity.
Our Workplace Mediation Service provides a confidential and impartial process to resolve conflicts between employees, teams, or management. Led by trained employment solicitors, we help parties reach mutually acceptable solutions, avoiding the cost and disruption of formal proceedings. Whether addressing interpersonal tensions, grievances, or breakdowns in communication, our service supports a healthier working environment and promotes long-term collaboration.
Early Intervention Mediation
Designed to address emerging conflicts before they escalate, this service helps employees and managers resolve misunderstandings and interpersonal issues through facilitated dialogue. It promotes proactive conflict resolution and reduces the risk of formal grievances.
Formal Workplace Mediation
For more entrenched disputes, our structured mediation process involves pre-mediation preparation, confidential sessions, and outcome documentation. Suitable for conflicts involving HR, senior leadership, or legal risk.
Post-Mediation Support
We offer follow-up sessions and coaching to ensure agreements are upheld and relationships continue to improve. This includes guidance for managers on maintaining a positive workplace culture.
Key Contact
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Case Study: Streamlining Operations
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24 May 2023
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Analysis
Case Study: Streamlining Operations
Learn how we improved efficiency our client
John Doe
24 May 2023
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5 min read
Analysis
Case Study: Streamlining Operations
Learn how we improved efficiency our client
John Doe
24 May 2023
.
5 min read
Analysis
Case Study: Streamlining Operations
Learn how we improved efficiency our client
John Doe
24 May 2023
.
5 min read
Analysis
Case Study: Streamlining Operations
Learn how we improved efficiency our client
John Doe
24 May 2023
.
5 min read
Analysis
Case Study: Streamlining Operations
Learn how we improved efficiency our client
John Doe
24 May 2023
.
5 min read
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your most pressing questions about our services and processes.
What is Workplace Mediation?
Workplace mediation is a voluntary, structured, confidential process that helps resolve conflict between employees or between employees and management. A neutral, professionally trained mediator facilitates a constructive conversation, enabling parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution without formal grievance or legal proceedings.
Mediation is a proactive alternative to escalation, helping employers resolve disputes early and protect organisational cohesion.
When is Workplace Mediation appropriate?
Mediation is suitable for a wide range of workplace conflicts, including:
- Personality clashes and interpersonal tension
- Communication breakdowns
- Allegations of bullying, harassment, or discrimination
- Disputes during or following grievance/disciplinary processes
- Reintegration following absence, restructure, or complaint resolution
While not a substitute for formal procedures in serious cases, mediation is often most effective when deployed early, before relationships deteriorate or litigation becomes likely.
What are the benefits for employers?
- Reduces Risk of Litigation – Mediation can prevent escalation to employment tribunals or legal claims.
- Cost-Effective – Less time, cost, and disruption than formal procedures or legal processes.
- Improves Workplace Culture – Supports open communication and healthier team dynamics.
- Confidential and Voluntary – Keeps disputes private, avoiding reputational risk.
- Promotes Early Resolution – Quick intervention preserves productivity and employee morale.
What does the process involve?
- Pre-Mediation Consultation – We discuss the conflict and assess suitability with key stakeholders.
- Individual Meetings – Confidential 1:1 meetings with each party to understand their perspective.
- Joint Mediation Session – Facilitated discussion to explore solutions and rebuild working relationships.
- Outcome Agreement – Where successful, parties agree on actions or behaviours to move forward constructively.
Sessions can be conducted on-site, off-site, or remotely via secure video conferencing, depending on your needs.
Is mediation legally binding?
No – agreements reached as part of a workplace mediation are not legally binding but are written, practical, and based on mutual commitment.
Can an employee refuse mediation?
Yes. Mediation is voluntary. Employers often find that explaining the benefits encourages participation.
What happens if mediation does not resolve the issue?
If mediation is unsuccessful, employers can still use other internal procedures. Discussions often help clarify next steps.
How long does mediation take?
Most mediations are completed within a single day, though early intervention discussions or follow‑ups may be shorter.
Who delivers the mediation?
Your mediator is Hannah King, Legal Director, who has been trained in workplace mediations and has significant employment law experience.
Why choose Herrington Carmichael for mediation?
As a firm of experienced solicitors, we bring a unique blend of legal insight and dispute resolution expertise to your workplace:
- Legally Trained Mediators – Our mediators are qualified solicitors with deep knowledge of employment law and HR practice.
- Tailored Support – We work closely with your HR or leadership team to understand the organisational context and desired outcomes.
- Confidential & Impartial – We ensure a safe, neutral space where parties feel heard and empowered to reach resolution.
- Integrated Legal Services – If mediation is unsuitable or unsuccessful, we provide seamless access to advisory or legal representation.