Restoration
What is restoration?
At Empartial, we hold the view that merely addressing concerns and delivering reports with comprehensive solutions is insufficient. The mediation and investigation processes can carry more profound implications for mental and emotional well-being. For genuine change and progress to take root, a restoration must occur that empowers all parties to advance together.
Why do it?
If undesirable behaviours are merely acknowledged but not effectively addressed and resolved promptly, they can undermine productivity, increase employee turnover, and give rise to further interpersonal conflicts and workplace dysfunction.
Taking proactive measures to prioritize mental health in the workplace is essential for fostering a positive and healthy environment where everyone can thrive.
Workplace investigations may be conducted to achieve specific outcomes, such as resolving a conflict or holding an accountable party responsible.
However, such investigations can have unintended negative repercussions. An employee's mental health may suffer as a result of their participation in an investigation, leaving them feeling anxious, judged, or vulnerable to further conflict—all of which can have detrimental effects on their mental well-being.
Therefore, it is crucial to
prioritise the
mental health of employees when conducting an investigation.
How does it work?
Planning phase - The most crucial support following a workplace investigation is the well-being of the individuals concerned, so when planning the restoration, we take the time to discuss the following areas separately with the complainant and respondent.
Look at the facts - What happened? How? Why?
Explore their Feelings - What was the emotional response? Anger? Fear? Concern?
Get the individual to describe the meaning - What was the impact? How was one affected?
Actions - What steps can be taken so the individuals concerned, can move forward? (what does it feel, look and sound like?)