Hi,

My org is currently looking at implementing an in-house mediation service to hopefully reduce the number of disciplinaries and grievances.  In order to do this I'm proposing we offer training / an accredited med course to individuals who want to become mediators.  However I dont want this to be seen as a management intiative so has anybody got any tips on how to go about advertising this opportunity especially as I want a number of employees from the Black and Ethnic Minority group to volunteer.

Much appreciated

Joe

Joe,

People often misinterpret the role of the mediator, so I think it may help if you take time to clearly state what mediation is, what the role of the mediator is and what benefits it brings both to the organisation and the individual.

I suggest that when advertising internally for mediators, you stress the impartiality of the mediator, stating that they act as a trained neutral person who will not take sides or judge who is right or wrong in a disagreement or dispute. 

It would help also to include a statement regarding confidentiality stating that mediation is confidential between the parties involved and the mediator. The statement could confirm that nothing discussed in mediation will be passed on anyone else, including line managers HR or employee representatives unless the parties want it to be.

Hope this helps