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Advice on Managing Difficult Conversations
The ability to be able to talk about very sensitive and emotive issues is an integral part of effective line management and can be critical to managing performance, promoting attendance and improving team dynamics. These difficult conversations should not be avoided.
Types of problems
Problems can arise in any workplace. Below are some examples, though not an exhaustive list. Employers, employees and their representatives may find it helpful to refer to the Labour Relations Agency's codes of practice, sample letters, flowcharts and guides. Our service is confidential and all our resources are free of charge to anyone working to prevent or resolve a workplace issue in Northern Ireland.
Steps to resolve
When there is an issue in the workplace, employers and employees have a number of options and steps they can take to resolve it, ranging from informal conversations to formal processes and procedures.
Escalating unresolved issues
Some issues in the workplace cannot be resolved informally so it is important that there is a fair and clear escalation process where each side meets their responsibilities. The Labour Relations Agency can offer information, flowcharts and codes of practice to help. We also offer confidential and impartial conciliation, mediation and arbitration services to help parties resolve issues without needing to go to tribunal.
The Agency is a public body with statutory responsibilities so there is no charge for our services.
Model Workplace Policy for Dignity at Work and Inclusive Working Environment
Model Workplace Policy for Dignity at Work and Inclusive Working Environment
Labour Relations Agency Corporate Plan 2017-2021
This Corporate Plan covers the four-year period from April 2017 to March 2021. It sets out how the Agency intends to contribute to the effectiveness of the Northern Ireland labour market through the delivery of high quality employment relations services.
Approaching a sensitive conversation regarding mental ill health
This document offers guidance as to how best to prepare for and manage conversations around managing mental ill health in the workplace.
Common Workplace Adjustments for Staff Experiencing Mental Ill Health
This document sets out suggestions as to how to support mental health in the workplace by making adjustments and providing assistance to support staff to fulfil their role.
Exercise - Current Position in My Workplace
This questionnaire helps establish the current policies and provision to support mental health in the workplace and identify where additional steps or resources might be needed.
Five Ways to Wellbeing Poster
This poster is available to download and display around the workplace, to remind people of positive things they can do to help manage their mental wellbeing.