As Family Mediation week gets underway, it is hoped that many more separating couples will consider using mediation as a way to settle arrangements for their children and finances.
There is a requirement for separating couples to consider “non-court dispute resolution” or NCDR before applying to the court. Proceedings can be paused if the court believes that couples do not have a good reason for rejecting NCDR.
The first step in any mediation is for the couple to each attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This meeting enables the mediator to assess the suitability of mediation, and other NCDR processes, with each person, so that if mediation is suitable, it has the best chance of supporting the couple to reach an agreement.
Mediation can also help couples work on their communication, which is particularly important when they have children to care for. Discussing and agreeing a parenting plan at mediation can iron out disagreements, set boundaries and clarify responsibilities as separating parents navigate the path towards constructive future discussions.
Whilst many couples access mediation at the point of separation, it is a process which can be returned again to in the event of difficulties. For example, whilst arrangements for children may be agreed at separation, if parents struggle to agree changes to those arrangements, as children get older, or if a new issue arises, mediation can still help. Particularly when separated parents have experienced mediation supporting them to reach an agreement in the first instance, they can have confidence that returning to the process can be similarly successful and protect the often-delicate co-parenting relationship from deteriorating.
Significant legal fees can also be avoided through using the mediation process, and the delay and uncertainty associated with court-based decisions is removed. Couples are more likely to agree flexible and workable arrangements if they remain involved in the decision-making process, rather than handing that decision over to the court.
If you’re interested in Family Mediation, please contact BPE’s Family Mediator Helen Cankett on 01242 248256 or email [email protected]. Helen is a Family Mediation Council Accredited Mediator in All Issues Mediation, with over 15 years of experience, enabling her to help couples discuss both financial and child arrangements in a safe and supportive environment.
