Mediation is a process that is used to resolve internal workplace disputes and conflict. The method I use is the ACAS facilitative model for mediation.  it is totally confidential.

This means that I facilitate assisting the parties to discuss and resolve their dispute or issues. I talk to both sides separately and together and I do no not adjudicate, offer opinions or suggest and determine outcomes. 

The mediator questions to help uncover underlying issue(s) and then assists the parties in understanding the problems helping them to clarify in their own minds the issues and the options for resolving their dispute/conflict. Mediation is not a fault finding process and so should not be used to adjudicate on who is/was right or wrong.

The overriding aim of workplace mediation is to restore and maintain the employment relationship wherever possible. This means that whilst the past has to be acknowledged the focus is on working together to move forward.  

With it being a voluntary process most kinds of work based disputes or conflict can be mediated if those that participate positively.

Whilst mediation tends to be more effective when it's used at, or close to, the beginning of a dispute, it can be used at any stage if all parties are willing.

It is very important to understand that agreements reached through mediation are not legally binding in respect of any potential claim to an employment tribunal, but, as it is voluntary and inclusive with the participants buying into the process, any positive outcome arrived at is respected by the overwhelming majority of participants.