2025 Programme

Opening Keynote:
Kevin Rowan, Director of Dispute Resolution, ACAS

Making mediation an everyday conversation -
Caroline Sheridan, Tracey Fox, David Whincup

Why do so many organisations wait for conflict to escalate before taking action? And why do individuals shy away from the everyday conversations that could make working life less stressful, more collaborative and more fulfilling? In this panel discussion, Sheridan Worldwide’s CEO Caroline Sheridan joins Mediator Tracey Fox and Employment Partner David Whincup to explore the mindsets, beliefs and practical barriers that prevent proactive conflict management. They'll unpack how fear of making a mistake often blocks the development of a resolution culture and suggest that the better way forward involves embedding mediation skills, building confidence and creating workplaces where healthy dialogue is the norm, not the exception.

Three Essential Conflict Management Skills for People in Organisations Today and in the Future
Alexandra Efthymiades, Director and Co-founder, Consensio

All working relationships experience conflict at some point. While many relationships manage conflict effectively, others become damaged and need the support of mediators and conflict coaches to help resolve conflict. Today, many organisations are putting more focus and investment into informal resolution, yet employees are still likely to end up in destructive conflict. This interactive session will explore three key conflict management skills that are needed in every organisation, to help all employees build stronger and more resilient working relationships, now and in the future.

The Unseen Factor: Navigating Psychological Diversity in Workplace Conflict -
Marie Coombes, CEO, We Restore Calm

1. Understanding Psychological Diversity

2. The Impact on Conversations & Conflict

3. Practical Strategies for Inclusive Conversations

BBC Case Study - Implementing Resolution First
Heather Palmer, BBC

Before the Break: Mediators Supporting Organisational Climate with Courage and Compassion. An interactive session on early intervention, Ubuntu Round Tables, and building cultures of connection in uncertain times. -
Sarah Boulton, Head of Ubuntu Round Tables Programme and Organisational Development Consultant

In today's context of uncertainty and change, the risk of tension escalating into entrenched conflict threatens to increase. While policies and skills act as anchors and encourage positive behaviour, it's the everyday human experiences- how people feel, connect, and respond under pressure that shape the climate of working life.

Mediators, internal and external, have a vital role in supporting early, compassionate interventions that strengthen trust and connection.

This interactive session explores how to recognise early signals of conflict, lead with courage, and use interventions like Ubuntu Round Tables to support organisations as communities - fostering cultures of understanding, resilience, and repair - before the break.