A socially safe work and study environment is characterised by a climate in which everyone feels free and supported to raise concerns, and where there is room for open dialogue about standards of conduct. That is why we encourage one another to discuss incidents at an early stage. This requires not only respect for differences, but also the willingness and the skill to engage in conversations that may be uncomfortable or difficult.
Not everyone finds this easy or self-evident. The mediators of the in-house mediation pool of VU Amsterdam can provide support by exploring issues from multiple perspectives and helping people to start and sustai constructive dialogue, even when tensions run high. In an in-depth interview, mediators Geerte Faas, Marise van Amersfoort and Arie Koops explain how they guide staff members, what mediation can achieve, and how it contributes to strengthening social safety.
