Conflict, grievance and accountability policy & process

This policy sets out a four-step process for addressing conflict between workers in a small, remote collective: Step 1 Gentle Intervention (peer support), Step 2 Supported Mediation (external mediator), Step 3 Accountability (structured repair and amends), and Step 4 Formal Grievance (ACAS-compliant, used only as a last resort or where abuse thresholds are met). It is explicitly grounded in the belief that formal grievance processes entrench punitive and antagonistic dynamics, and instead prioritises shared understanding, acknowledgement of harm, and voluntary accountability. The policy distinguishes between everyday conflict and abuse, reserves formal routes for the latter, and includes a 'Red Lines / Limitations' section for situations such as physical or sexual violence. It is most useful for small charities or collectives seeking an alternative to conventional HR disciplinary frameworks, though its scope is intentionally limited to internal worker relationships and does not cover complaints from external partners, funders, or community members.