Conflict management

Conflict at work can affect performance and wellbeing. Learn how to spot the signs and take positive action to support your workforce.

What employers can do

There are a number of things employers can do to help prevent, manage and resolve conflict. These include:

Focus on line management training

Ensure managers are equipped to address the issues underlying the cause of conflict empathetically.

Develop a culture of inclusion

Create a culture based on dignity and respect for all. Leaders treat conflict resolution as a strategic priority.

Consult with employees on creating their organisations behaviours’ and values. Promote team building.

Communicate effective reporting channels

Have a speak up culture where individuals can share concerns and report any issues confidentially

Develop effective policies and procedures for resolving conflict, including both informal and formal approaches.

Ensure a framework is in place to encompass a preventative approach, offer mediation as part of the process.

Monitor and evaluate

Monitor and evaluate conflict resolutions procedures

Provide support and signposting

Find practical tools for preventing and managing conflict at work on the ACAS and CIPD websites.

Page last reviewed: 10th November 2025