What the law says about dividing finances and property on divorce is lacking – including among divorcees themselves. The study, by the University of Bristol, found that less than half of ten statements were correctly identified as either true or false. The levels of understanding was only slightly better among Read more…
One in every six parents can’t spot the signs of emotional abuse. The NSPCC asked parents to identify what would count as emotional abuse. The scenarios that were wrongly identified as emotional abuse include: Being over-controlling of a child Never showing any emotions in interactions with a child Pushing a Read more…
A separating family attends a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (MIAM) for a mediator to assess the issues that must be resolved. They will check if you are eligible for a voucher, whether the dispute or application concerns a child, and whether you are involved in financial matters related to a Read more…
After separation, your child or children will need both parents to be actively involved and interested. If you can’t always be there, think about letters, Skype, phone calls, sending photos, and asking questions. Both parents should be involved in the children’s education regarding school plays and parent evenings. Reassure your Read more…
People don’t decide to end a long-term relationship lightly, especially when children are involved. Divorce and separation are two of the most painful life events anyone ever goes through. They can lead people to question everything they thought they knew about themselves and their lives. They are overwhelming. If this Read more…
In the middle of what may be the most difficult time in your life, it can be very difficult to know where to go for help. When you need more support than you have ever needed before, you don’t know who to ask or how you will afford to pay Read more…
The next stage involves exploring the options that are in practice open to you. These will depend very much on your personal circumstances and what is important to your family. You will probably both find it helps if you have a full and honest conversation about each option, including the Read more…
•It really helps to go to your first mediation knowing what is important to you. Try to keep an open mind about what the practical solution might look like but identify the questions that you believe need answering. These will be unique to your family, but might include, for example: Read more…
Mediation is a structured conversation in which a professional helps people discuss difficult things in a safe space. A qualified mediator will keep the discussion focused on the important issues and encourage you both to think about the future rather than the past. As a family, you have probably had Read more…
One of the most difficult things about divorce and separation is the uncertainty and confusion people feel. Mediation can help you work out what your options are. Sometimes, none of the options will be especially good from your point of view, and that can be difficult and unhappy. However, once Read more…