Employment Law Birmingham News

Workplace relations body Acas has called for more employers to consider using mediation at work to help resolve disputes and avoid potentially costly and stressful employment tribunal claims. The call comes after a study carried out by Acas in 2011 found that just 5% of employers have used mediation to solve a workplace dispute.

The study also revealed that despite low take up by employers, 64% were aware of mediation, and around three quarters of businesses agreed that mediation is a good tool for resolving disputes at work, with half agreeing that mediation produces "win-win" solutions that leave both parties satisfied.

Andrew Wareing. Director of the Acas service responsible for resolving disputes between individuals and their employers, said:

"Workplace conflict can damage an organisation's effectiveness. Last week's announcement that the Government is funding a pilot scheme for two regional mediation networks will help raise awareness among employers about how mediation can help benefit their business.

“Mediation helps resolve disputes quickly and effectively, minimising distress and cost as well as preserving workplace relationships. Acas successfully resolved 90% of the mediation cases we were involved in over the last year alone."