The BMA's interpersonal mediation service helps GP practices address complex and sensitive workplace issues constructively, before they escalate into costly and potentially damaging disputes.
Our professionally trained mediators provide a confidential, impartial and voluntary process that helps people rebuild communication, find common ground and agree practical ways forward.
Why use mediation?
Mediation provides a structured opportunity to discuss issues openly and work towards a solution that everyone can support.
The service can help:
- improve communication between colleagues
- rebuild working relationships
- resolve interpersonal disputes within partnerships
- identify practical solutions for the future
- reduce the likelihood of formal disputes or litigation
Rather than investigating what has happened or deciding who is right, mediation focuses on helping those involved develop their own sustainable solutions and agreements.
Why choose the BMA?
Our mediators understand the unique pressures and realities of general practice.
They are professionally trained and accredited by ACAS and NCFE, experienced in dispute resolution, and independent of the practice involved. Their role is not to take sides, but to facilitate constructive conversations and help participants find a way forward together.
Who can access the service?
- BMA members can access the service as a member benefit for no charge.
- The service is available to GP partners and salaried GPs.
- A fee of £750 plus VAT applies for each non-BMA member participating in the mediation process. The practice will be invoiced accordingly.
How the mediation process works
A mediator will contact you to discuss the issues involved.
The mediator will explain the process and determine whether mediation is likely to be appropriate.
The assigned mediator will arrange confidential meetings with each participant.
In your meeting, the mediator will:
- explain the mediation process
- understand each person's perspective
- identify key issues
- discuss participation and next steps
These meetings are normally held remotely.
If all parties agree to proceed, the mediator will facilitate a structured conversation.
Participants will be given the opportunity to discuss the issues, identify areas of common ground and explore practical solutions.
Any agreement reached is developed by the parties themselves, not imposed by the mediator.
The aim is to create practical and sustainable commitments for the future.
Get in touch
If you would like to discuss whether mediation may be appropriate for your situation, complete our contact form and a member of the team will be in touch.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Confidentiality is one of the core principles of the BMA mediation process.
Yes. Participation in mediation is voluntary for everyone involved.
No. The mediator does not investigate complaints, make judgements or determine outcomes. Their role is to facilitate discussion and help participants develop their own solutions.
The BMA mediation service is delivered by professionally trained mediators who are accredited by ACAS and NCFE and experienced in dispute resolution.
Yes. From 1 September 2026, the service is available for interpersonal issues involving employed and sessional GPs.
BMA members can access the service at no charge. A fee of £750 plus VAT applies for each non-BMA member participating in the mediation process.
The service is designed to help practices address workplace conflict constructively and can help reduce the need for costly and potentially damaging litigation.