Informal processes are an alternative to a formal complaint process in effort to find mutual conflict resolution between two or more parties. It is encouraged for students and employees to begin with one of these options, as appropriate. If the issue is unresolved, or behaviour escalates beyond informal conflict resolution capacities, the student, or the employee may always pursue the formal complaint process at any point. The following options for informal resolution include:

• Dialogue: speaking directly with the person with whom there is conflict.
• Conflict Coaching: Getting advice from the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, RLS, a counsellor, SAC/FSA, etc. on how to engage with the conflict effectively and independently. This can include, but is not limited to: problem solving/solution finding conversations, and/or role playing out possible strategies for action to feel empowered to manage the conflict on your own.
• Mediation: A non-partial third party coordinates a structures session aimed at resolving the conflict by constructing a mutually agreeable plan. This is coordinated through the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.
  • This can include typical mediation where all parties are in the same room, or shuttle mediation where parties are not sharing space but the negotiation process occurs through the facilitator who acts as a go-between.
• Restorative Justice Practices: A facilitated conversation for students taking responsibility for harmful behaviour and those who were/are affected by the behaviour. The purpose is to repair harm and restore relationships while ensuring accountability. This is coordinated through the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.