CMC Roundtable: Shifting the Culture on Workplace Conflict
CMC Roundtable: Shifting the Culture on Workplace Conflict
Workplace dispute resolution is at a turning point. On 24 April 2026, the CMC is convening leaders from across business, legal and HR to consider how earlier, non-court-based approaches can reduce conflict and change organisational culture. This piece sets out what the event will cover and why it matters.
WRITTEN BY ANNA ROBINSON
The CMC is proud to convene a workplace and employment event to advance mediation and employment relations.
Taking place on 24 April 2026 and generously hosted by CEDR, the event will bring together leaders from across business, legal and HR communities to explore how we can:
• Encourage earlier use of non-court-based dispute resolution in workplace conflicts
• Shift organisational culture away from reactive legal risk towards early, constructive resolution
• Build psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel heard and managers are equipped to handle conflict
• Reduce the number of cases progressing to Tribunal through more effective early intervention
The event will focus on three key themes; legislative and regulatory developments; potential updates to the ACAS Code of Practice and wider cultural change across the legal and HR landscape.
Our CEO, Victoria Harris comments:
“This CMC-led initiative marks a pivotal moment for workplace dispute resolution. By accelerating the use of non-court-based approaches and embedding practical mediation skills across leadership, we can drive real cultural change, reduce unnecessary litigation, and create workplaces where employees and managers feel heard and safe to speak up. I’m confident that the outcomes from this event will translate into meaningful action, broadening access to effective dispute resolution and putting mediation at the heart of a better workplace.”
An update will be shared following this meeting. If you would like to join the CMC Workplace and Employment Working Group, please contact Anna Robinson at projects@civilmediation.org.
