1. A clear definition to what conditions constitute
policy mediation should be clearly defined. As a rule, legitimate issues
for mediation are those that pertain to ministry procedures,
>> when they fail to fulfill their function,
>> when they fail to secure a safe environment
for those in the work place or receiving ministry,
>> when issues between individuals place the
ministry or individuals at risk,
>> when there is a refusal to abide by existing
policy.
2. When legitimate mediation gives rise to the need
to change or create new standing policies, all ministry participants
should be willing to abide by the outcome of that decision.
3. Person (s) in authority to decide the legitimacy
of pending issues should be clearly identified.
4. When policy mediation is necessary, the issue
must first be brought forth in writing. This document should include
the specifics to be addressed. These issues may not be generalizations
of any matter. Issues that are not submitted prior to mediation must
be withheld from the mediation itinerary. All directly involved should
have ample time to prepare to address the specific issues in fairness
before a mediator.
5. A specified time duration should be set
to answer why the issue or policy in question will or will not be addressed.
Thirty days is reasonable