FAQ
Why do you specialise in the education sector?
The education sector is unique and we believe it requires a specialist response. With our background in secondary and tertiary education we understand the dynamics and we care about providing a solution that actually makes a difference.
Why did you choose the name Basalt Solutions?
It's inspired by the basalt rock in the volcanic crater that borders our home town of Christchurch, New Zealand. Basalt is a rock that can be trusted to remain reliable and dependable under pressure - exactly what you need from an investigation. We think it sums up our mission nicely.
What are your workshops like?
They contain a combination of case studies, discussion, scenario-based exercises, and role-playing. Some people will be pushed outside their comfort zone and we'll be guaranteed to have a laugh along the way.
How big is your team?
Basalt Solutions is owned and operated by husband and wife team, Tim and Natalie Sterne. Tim manages our operations and Natalie provides administrative support. We engage other experts when required.
How does an independent investigation actually work?
You're dealing with a complaint, grievance or allegation of misconduct. You need to investigate to establish the facts. Contact us and we'll tell you whether we can investigate for you. We'll work with you to create agreed Terms of Reference. We conduct the investigation independently of you, keeping you regularly updated on any emerging risks that need to be managed and the progress of our investigation.
At the conclusion of our investigation, you receive a final investigation report on which to base your decisions.
How can you conduct workplace investigations when you're not an employment lawyer?
We don't need to be employment lawyers because we don't provide you with legal advice. An investigation is simply a fact-finding exercise and that's what we're best at. We do generally recommend you engage an employment lawyer alongside us to provide expert advice, but they don't need to conduct the investigation itself. In our experience, you get the best result when you pay a lawyer to operate within their area of expertise and pay specialist investigators to investigate. If you require the services of an employment lawyer, we can refer you on to someone in our network. We work with large firms as well as independent lawyers.
How do you conduct an investigation outside Christchurch?
There are three options. Firstly, we can travel to your location and conduct the investigation in-person. Secondly, in some cases, the entire investigation can be conducted remotely using Microsoft Teams and Zoom - this is a very efficient and cost-effective option. Thirdly, we can take a hybrid approach - interview as many people as possible remotely and only travel to conduct the most important interviews face-to-face.
How much investigation experience do you have?
Tim joined the New Zealand Police in 2012. He quickly progressed to the Criminal Investigation Branch where he was promoted to the rank of Detective Sergeant. He has investigated serious crime all around New Zealand and has deployed to Australia. He has led investigations into allegations of misconduct and corruption within Police, other government agencies and private businesses. Since launching Basalt Solutions, he has led investigations into allegations of bullying, harassment, sexual abuse, fraud, privacy breaches and corruption.
How can I keep up to date with the work you’re doing?
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