Website of the UK government

Mediation

In mediation, an impartial expert talks to both sides separately, as well as together if needed, and helps to come up with a solution they can both accept. It's usually quicker than taking legal action, often lasting less than one day, and it's almost always less expensive and stressful.

Both sides must agree to mediation. Mediation is not a free service, although if you and your employer agree to mediation, it would usually be your employer who pays.

The mediator doesn't just tell you what you should do, but advises on issues, asking questions that help people look at their own behaviour.

Mediation is best used early in a dispute. It's sometimes used as part of a grievance procedure.

• Grievance procedures

Some companies have their own trained mediators, and organisations like the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) and the Labour Relations Agency (LRA) in Northern Ireland offer professional mediation services. The Acas and LRA services are used mainly to:

Acas helpline advisors will be able to let you know where you can access their paid for mediation services. From 6 April 2009, Acas will also be able to let you know how you can access other mediation legal and professional organisations.

If you go ahead with mediation it's best to be prepared by writing down the problem, the history and possible outcomes that you would find acceptable.

Agreements reached through mediation aren't legally binding, unless this is agreed in advance.

• Disciplinary procedures
• Acas mediation - find out more Opens new window
• LRA mediation in Northern Ireland - find out more Opens new window

Where to get help

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

• Acas Opens new window

The Labour Relations Agency (LRA) offers free, confidential and impartial advice on all employment rights issues for residents of Northern Ireland.

• Labour Relations Agency 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
• Grievance, disciplinary and Employment Tribunal procedures from 6 April 2009
• Advice for your employer about handling discipline and grievance issues from Business Link Opens new window
• Advice for Northern Ireland employers for handling discipline and grievance issues from nibusinessinfo Opens new window