Invite, arrange and prepare

Employment Mediation Support

Mediation is voluntary and confidential. The mediator must remain neutral. ProHearings can act for you by inviting the other side, arranging an independent mediator and helping you prepare, but does not act as the mediator in your own dispute.

The invitation

We take a short outline of the dispute and the outcome you want, then prepare a clear invitation explaining the proposed process, format, fee approach and next steps. We retain the invitation, delivery record and any response.

Choosing an independent mediator

If both sides agree in principle, we can propose mediators with relevant employment experience, check availability and independence, agree how the mediator fee will be split and confirm the terms before anything is booked.

Preparing your position

Support can include a concise position statement, the documents the mediator needs, opening position, target, walk-away point, non-financial terms and a plan for each private session.

Representation on the day

Where agreed, ProHearings can attend on your side, help test proposals and keep a record of terms. The mediator remains responsible for the neutral process and does not advise either party.

Deadlines continue

Private mediation does not pause an employment tribunal deadline. Acas notification, the ET1 and any tribunal orders must be managed alongside mediation.

Agreement and independent advice

Mediation discussions are confidential, subject to the agreed exceptions. Any resolution should be recorded clearly. If the outcome is a statutory settlement agreement, separate advice from a relevant independent adviser is required.

Current official guidance

FAQs

01Can an employer be forced to mediate?
No. Mediation is voluntary and both sides must agree to participate.
02Is mediation the same as Acas conciliation?
No. Acas conciliation is a free statutory service connected to potential or existing tribunal claims. Private mediation uses an independent mediator selected by the parties and usually carries a separate fee.
03Can mediation happen while Acas is running?
It can, if both sides agree, but the cost and usefulness should be assessed case by case.
04Can mediation happen after an ET1?
Yes. Private mediation and, in suitable cases, judicial mediation can be considered after proceedings begin.
05Does ProHearings act as the mediator?
No. ProHearings acts for one party. The mediator is separately appointed and remains independent.

Related ProHearings pages