Facilitation promotes open discussion between parties to share information, brainstorm, strategise and develop plans on a given topic/s. These open discussions allow participants an opportunity to hear and be heard, to reflect, explore and collaborate. The discussions may involve having to deal with a sensitive issue, which needs to be dealt with carefully in a controlled and safe manner, so the parties feel supported in what they say and what they hear. Facilitation may work alongside mediation and/or training. Facilitators take on the role to guide the discussion, to diffuse where necessary, and ensure all participants are equally heard. Facilitation can help rebuild relationships and teams, clarify misunderstandings and past grievances, improve team meetings and communication, enhance team functioning, and resolve team or group conflict.
