Daniel Priest
When a relationship comes to an end, there is often a great deal to resolve. From arrangements for children to decisions about the family home, savings, pensions and other financial matters, separation can quickly become complicated. Taking a constructive approach to these decisions can make the process easier for everyone involved, helping to reduce conflict and reach practical solutions more effectively.
Family Mediation offers this approach. It provides a structured setting in which separating couples can work through the issues that need to be resolved, with the support of an independent, professionally trained family mediator. Rather than asking a court to make decisions for them, the couple remains at the centre of the process, working towards solutions that are practical and appropriate for their particular circumstances to make their own decisions.
This can have significant advantages. Mediation is generally quicker and more flexible than court proceedings and can allow discussions to take place at a pace and in a format that suits the family. It can also help reduce the scope for unnecessary conflict, allowing both parties to focus on reaching workable arrangements rather than becoming entrenched in opposing positions. It enables the parties to have control over the outcome as opposed to decisions made for them. It is more cost - effective than dealing with your issues through the Court.
Where children are involved, mediation can be particularly valuable. It encourages parents to focus on their children’s needs and on creating arrangements that can work in practice, both immediately and as circumstances change. Maintaining a constructive relationship after separation can make a real difference to family life in the years ahead. It enables parents to work together to co-parent after they separate and maintain effective communication. In some cases, children can also be given a voice to express their views.
Mediation also works alongside legal advice. Each person can obtain independent legal advice throughout the process, helping them understand their rights and the implications of any proposals. Where an agreement is reached, it can then be formalised appropriately.
Sills & Betteridge mediation team are participating in the Government’s current Family Mediation Voucher Scheme, which can provide a contribution of up to £500 towards mediation costs in eligible cases. The scheme is designed to encourage separating parents to use mediation to agree child arrangements.
Choosing mediation does not mean avoiding difficult conversations. It means having those conversations in a structured environment, with the aim of finding solutions that allow everyone to move forward.
For many parents, that can be a more constructive, private and proportionate way of navigating separation.
For more information or to book an appointment please visit www.sillsmediation.co.uk or call 01522 551613.