What are the advantages of child inclusive mediation?

Family breakdown can leave children feeling anxious, confused and worried over their future arrangements. Typical concerns can include:

• Where will I live?
• Will I still see both parents? Grandparents? Friends?
• Will I see my pets? Where will they live?
• Will I still go to the same school?

Throughout any separation and divorce proceedings, it is important that any children feel seen and heard to help reassure them and alleviate their fears for the future. One way to do this is through child inclusive mediation.

What is child inclusive mediation?

In mediation, a mediator meets with couples to discuss the issues arising from family breakdown, such as child and financial arrangements. Sometimes it is appropriate for a mediator to also meet with any children involved, to understand what they are thinking and feeling. This is known as child inclusive mediation.

The process focuses on the child’s concerns and what help they might need to adjust to their changing circumstances. Discussions are confidential and the child needs to give the mediator permission to discuss their conversations with parents.

Generally, the process is suitable for children over 10 years old, although younger children can be included at the discretion of their parents. Meetings take place at a neutral venue, such as an office or school building and while the mediator may also be the same one working with the parents, often it is a second mediator specifically trained to work with children.

The benefits of child inclusive mediation

The overriding benefit of child inclusive mediation is that children feel they have a voice and this can help to combat anxiety and insecurity.

Specific benefits include:

• The opportunity to explore different solutions that specifically suit your family situation.
• Provides parents with valuable insights into their child’s needs and worries. This encourages parents to cooperate and collaborate in seeking solutions and agreements.
• Reduces conflict by providing a forum where all feel heard and respected, giving families the space, control and time to resolve matters more amicably than going to court.
• It prevents children from becoming messengers between their parents.

Other professionals who can support children coping with family breakdown include family therapists, counsellors and school pastoral carers. Even a trusted friend or family member who can act neutrally, can talk to the children about their concerns and what support might be appropriate.

At Tisshaws, we have three trained mediators, Richard, Hana and Verity, experienced in working with families to find the right solutions and agreements, for their personal circumstances.

While Verity is working towards accreditation, both Richard and Hana have achieved Accredited Mediator status meaning they are qualified to conduct statutory Mediation Information & Assessment Meetings (MIAMs), as well as mediations funded by the UK Government’s Family Mediation Voucher Scheme.

If you are struggling with issues arising from separation and divorce, we offer a no obligation initial consultation for a fixed fee of £150 (incl. VAT), for up to one hour. At this meeting, we can advise you on all the issues relating to your personal circumstances, allowing you to make informed decisions moving forward.

To book an appointment please call 01444 472700, email us at info@tisshawssolicitors.co.uk or complete the form below.