When parents separate, agreeing arrangements for their children is important.  Some parents are not sure they need to mediate or that it would be helpful.  We are often asked questions such as

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Q: How does mediation help our children, really?

A: Children feel the temperature of conflict even when they don’t know the details. When adults find calmer, clearer agreements, children get more predictable routines and less tension between the people they love most.

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Q: Do children ever come into mediation?

A: In some cases, yes, through a child‑inclusive model. Specially trained mediators talk to children separately and, with their permission, bring their views back into the parents’ session in a sensitive way. There is a helpful information page on our website about child inclusive mediation - www.familymediationandmentoring.co.uk

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Q: We disagree on everything to do with our children. Is mediation still worth trying?

A: Mediation doesn’t require you to agree before you start. It gives you a space to unpack one issue at a time—bedtimes, holidays, travel—so you can build a workable plan step by step instead of trying to fix everything at once.

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In most situations now a Judge will expect everyone to have attended a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before making a court application, this is so parents can better understand how mediation can help them stay out of court and if mediation isn't suitable, what other options there might be for staying out of court and reaching an agreement.

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If you would like to discuss how mediation might be able to help you or someone you know, call us on 0800 206 2258 or email us at hello@familymandm.co.uk . You can also book a free call via our website at www.familymediationandmentoring.co.uk

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