I’ve had a really great experience with this course. I have learned skills not only that will help me in my day-to-day work but also those that I can use to help others. The course was very comprehensive, and the information provided from pre-course through to the end was clear and thorough. The coaching from both Elizabeth and David was really positive and constructive.
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Driving Positive Change: GTR’s Mediation Training Success

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), one of the UK’s largest train operating companies, is committed to fostering a positive and collaborative workplace culture. As part of their dedication to enhancing conflict resolution skills within their organisation, they partnered with The TCM Group to complete the National Certificate in Workplace Mediation. The course, led by expert mediator Elizabeth Nuckowska, provided GTR employees with the tools and confidence to manage and resolve workplace disputes effectively.

The Importance of Mediation Skills in the Rail Sector

In the fast-paced and highly regulated rail industry, effective communication and conflict resolution are crucial. With large, diverse teams working in high-pressure environments, workplace disputes can arise, impacting morale, productivity, and service delivery. Equipping employees with mediation skills helps to prevent conflicts from escalating, fosters a more harmonious working environment, and ultimately enhances customer service by ensuring staff can collaborate effectively. By investing in this training, GTR is demonstrating its commitment to strengthening workplace relationships and maintaining operational excellence.

The Training Experience

At TCM, we were delighted to witness the enthusiasm, commitment, and skill demonstrated by the GTR team throughout their training. The course was designed to be highly interactive, allowing delegates to put their knowledge, strategies, and personal qualities into action. We were treated to Oscar-worthy role-play performances, where participants fully embraced the challenge of real-life mediation scenarios.

Under the expert guidance of Elizabeth Nuckowska, the delegates not only gained valuable mediation skills but also experienced significant professional and personal growth. The engaging, supportive, and dynamic learning environment helped them to build confidence in their abilities while strengthening their team bond.

One participant, Laura Sharp, ER Advisor, shared her experience:
“It’s been a really engaging and interesting course, and I’ve definitely come away with new skills that I will use not only in this process but in my everyday working life. Thank you both. It was detailed and covered everything. Elizabeth was really happy to answer questions, and David supported us with the practical assessment. I feel prepared to go forward with more confidence.”

Outstanding Feedback

The feedback from GTR was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the impact and effectiveness of the training:

“We all thoroughly enjoyed the course; it taught us such useful skills to use both inside and outside of mediation and was also great for team building. Elizabeth was great – knowledgeable, friendly, patient and kind throughout.”
— Joanna Lull, Employee Relations Manager, GTR

Jillian Scott-Fairweather, ER Advisor, echoed these sentiments:
“I’ve had a really great experience with this course. I have learned skills not only that will help me in my day-to-day work but also those that I can use to help others. The course was very comprehensive, and the information provided from pre-course through to the end was clear and thorough. The coaching from both Elizabeth and David was really positive and constructive.”

Gayle Campbell, ER Advisor, also praised the course:
“Fabulous trainers who take you through each step with confidence.”

Kitt McIntosh, ER Advisor, reflected on the deeper impact of the training:
“It was engaging, informative and fun. It’s given me a broad appreciation for how mediation can be a very powerful tool for change. I also feel that it’s properly been embedded as learning through practice.”

Impact & Benefits

Following the completion of the training, GTR employees now feel empowered to handle workplace conflicts more effectively. The key benefits of their participation include:

  • Enhanced Mediation Skills: Employees are now equipped with the techniques to facilitate fair and constructive conversations.
  • Improved Workplace Relationships: The training has helped build stronger, more collaborative interactions among colleagues.
  • Increased Confidence in Conflict Resolution: Delegates have developed the confidence to manage disputes in a structured and impartial manner.
  • Stronger Team Dynamics: The course served as an excellent team-building opportunity, fostering mutual respect and understanding among participants.
  • Sector-Specific Application: The skills gained will be particularly valuable in managing the unique challenges faced in the transport sector, where effective teamwork and communication are essential for smooth operations.

Strengthening Workplace Mediation at GTR

GTR’s commitment to workplace mediation reflects their proactive approach to employee relations and their dedication to maintaining a positive work culture. By investing in high-quality mediation training, they have empowered their team with essential skills that will benefit both their organisation and their employees.

If your organisation is looking to develop in-house mediation expertise, The TCM Group is here to help. Our National Certificate in Workplace Mediation provides professionals with the confidence and expertise to manage workplace disputes effectively.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your team in building a more harmonious and productive workplace.