Any of those involved can contact the mediator by phone, email or through the website. In workplace mediation, the initial contact often comes from a manager or an HR professional. In such cases, the mediator reaches out to the others.

Mediation can only proceed if everyone involved agrees to take part.

The purpose of this stage is to agree the conditions for mediation and to understand the nature of the conflict The parties speak with the mediator individually.

The first session is also scheduled at this stage.

A session usually lasts between 2.5 and 3 hours. The process typically involves two to six sessions.

In the first session, each person has the opportunity to speak without interruption.

The parties then identify the key issues and discuss them one by one. The mediator ensures that the conversation remains balanced and takes place within a safe and structured framework.

The parties clarify how they wish to move forward. This may take the form of an agreement, or simply a way forward that works in practice.

If needed, the outcome can be recorded in writing.

A follow-up meeting may take place one or two months later. This allows the parties to reflect on what has changed and to raise any further questions.