Facilitated Discussion Process for Workplace Grievances

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.