Conflict resolution

Taking a restorative approach to workplace conflict.

Workplace issues around conflict and difficult behaviours are often a source of distress, anger, fear, and shame, and have the capacity to make staff emotionally and physically unwell. These issues are not straightforward and a formal response, such as punishment, rarely considers the emotional fallout that managers and employees experience, with punishment only serving to push people further apart.

A restorative approach is seen as a more holistic and humane approach to conflict resolution, aiming to address the underlying issues that lead to conflicts and create a sense of closure and healing for those involved.

What is restorative conflict resolution?

Restorative conflict resolution is a method of resolving disputes or conflicts that focuses on repairing harm, addressing the needs of those affected, and restoring relationships. The method is grounded in the principles of restorative justice, which seeks to shift the focus from punishment and blame to healing and accountability.

The restorative approach does not seek to blame or stigmatize a particular individual. It promotes dialogue and reconciliation between the parties involved so that individuals can move on with renewed commitment to their work, and to each other.

How we can help

Our approach to restorative conflict resolution brings together those most affected by harmful and destructive circumstances in the workplace. We work with them to come to an agreement about how to repair the harm and move forward.

Our team has used this innovative approach across a wide range of industries, government and non-government sectors, and large and small businesses with great success.

Some of the benefits of our restorative approach include:

Focus on healing and repair - by emphasising healing, it helps individuals and workplaces move forward in a healthier way.

Empowerment - it empowers those directly affected by conflict to have a voice in the resolution process.

Accountability – a restorative process encourages individuals responsible for harm to take responsibility for their actions. This accountability can be an essential step in acknowledging wrongdoing and making amends.

Improved Communication - by facilitating dialogue and open communication, restorative conflict resolution promotes understanding and empathy among the parties involved. This can help to build or rebuild relationships and reduce the likelihood of future conflicts.

Sustainable Solutions - the focus on addressing underlying causes of conflicts makes the resolutions more sustainable. By addressing root issues, restorative processes aim to prevent future conflicts from arising.

Do you need help with a workplace conflict? Talk to our experienced team today.

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