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…
When you are in a broken relationship, your ability to be the best parent you can be is hampered. So, separation can be a positive opportunity to have a better relationship with your children. Try not to see your child as a commodity to be bargained over. Children don’t see Read more…
Being a separated parent is a daunting challenge. Here are some issues you may wish to consider when exploring what arrangements best suit your new family. If you think agreeing on a parenting plan would be helpful, we can work on this in mediation. Who is going to spend time Read more…
During mediation it is really important, though often really hard, to keep communication with your ex civilized. Communication can be hampered when you feel too anxious, angry or upset. Basic exercises may help – take a breath, go for a walk, count to ten. Finding a way to communicate effectively Read more…
The Office for National Statistics published the divorce statistics for 2020 in England and Wales. There is a caveat about the potential but unknown impact of the pandemic on the figures. Highlights are: Over 103, 000 divorces were granted in England and Wales, a decrease of 4.5% compared with 2019. Read more…
The government is extending the family mediation voucher scheme. They have also contributed another £1.3 million, which is expected to extend the scheme until the end of March 2022. This means that mediators can continue to offer vouchers to their clients. It is anticipated that vouchers will now be available Read more…
The Child Maintenance Service collected or arranged a record £1 billion last year. The increase is down to the CMS having stronger powers and and having strong sanctions. This includes deductions from personal bank accounts as well as seizing passports and/or driving licences. There is also now the threat of Read more…