Thus, the notion of the "hybrid mediator" has taken a step closer to becoming a reality. According to the ADR Group's head of training, Tina Kaulbach, hybrid mediators bring more than commercial acumen to the resolution of disputes. They offer also "objectivity and sensitivity" to overcome the "emotional dynamic often evident." She continues, "They are highly skilled, dual qualified mediators who understand the commerial reality of complex family finances and family business disputes."

The ADR Group course offers qualification after four days. Globis is offering a two-day course for those interested in workplace mediation. Among those who attended the first Globis course in January was barrister Antony Sendall from Littleton Chambers. “Despite being an employment lawyer already, I found the course both valuable and stimulating," he says, "I learned a lot primarily through dialogue and discussion, and now feel much better equipped to conduct effective workplace mediations."

At the Globis course in January, most of the delegates were barristers and solicitors. "We thought long and hard about the design for the programme," says Jack Fallow, director of Globis, "and as a result of its success we plan to follow the same structure again in March." In addition, Globis is offering mediation webinars to keep delegates up to date with developments in HR and employment law.

Issues covered in the course itself include how to draft settlements, how to follow up after mediations, and how to calculate the cost of conflict for an organisation.

Are there more realistic prospects of work for family and workplace mediators? Clive Lewis, managing director of Globis is bullish. "We estimate that workplace disputes are costing UK employers £24bn a year," he says "And indications are that there will be a continued increase in the number of organisations referring case to mediation. With tigher budgets in most organisations this year, mediation is simply more cost effective than ongoing dispute or going to a tribunal."