TITLE:
Facilitated Discussion Process for Workplace Grievances
AUTHORS:
Josephine Sau Fan Chow, Louise Collingridge, Jacqueline Ramirez
KEYWORDS:
Facilitated Discussion, Workplace Grievances, Human Resource, Conflict Resolution
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Service Science and Management,
Vol.16 No.3,
June
16,
2023
ABSTRACT: Objective: To explore the role and implementation of the Facilitated Discussion
process in workplace grievance management within a healthcare setting. Methods: This is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with implementers,
developers and participants involved in Facilitated Discussions which were
recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed for key themes using thematic
analysis techniques. No limit was placed on the number of participants, which
included staff working in human resource department as well as administrative
and clinical staff who had engaged with the facilitated discussion process. Results: Participants mostly viewed the process as meritorious associated with
restorative justice principles. However, implementation of the process in the
healthcare facility faced barriers to wider adoption due to lack of certainty
about the roles and processes, limited training, staff availability and
perceived risk. Adoption of principles and skills across the organization were
identified as necessary for effective implementation. The findings suggested
that training for facilitators and promoting the benefits of Facilitated
Discussions across all levels of the organization could improve implementation. Conclusions: The nature of the process of facilitated discussions for
grievance management requires resources to promote awareness and trust in the
process, skilled facilitators and defined procedures for use in large
facilities.