During Family Mediation Week the emphasis is on raising awareness of mediation and its benefits for families who are going through a divorce or separation. A recent Family Mediation Week press release states that ‘Whilst family mediation clearly works, there are still low levels of awareness meaning families are still missing out.’ So, what is mediation and how does it benefit families?
What is mediation?
Mediation is an alternative form of dispute resolution which helps parties reach an agreement between themselves, avoiding the need for court proceedings which can be stressful for everyone.
Family mediation, as with other forms of mediation, is conducted by an independent, trained mediator. The mediator is not on either person’s ‘side’ and will always remain neutral. Crucially, they are not there to give legal advice.
The mediator’s role is to facilitate discussions and negotiations, and to support the parties in reaching a satisfactory agreement.
The aim of family mediation is to encourage separating couples to sit down together and work out a solution that suits everyone involved whether the issue is financial or concerns children.
Family mediation can help with a range of family matters including separation, divorce, child arrangements, property and finance.
What are the benefits for families?
Mediation helps families reach an agreement in a non-confrontational way, helping to reduce stress and conflict. It is a successful way for families to resolve disputes as demonstrated by a recent survey:
‘The Family Mediation Council Survey of family mediators, conducted in Autumn 2019, shows that family mediation is a highly successful way of helping separating couples resolve disputes, with mediation successful in over 70% of cases. These success rates are consistent with figures from previous studies, including government studies.’ (source: press release, Family Mediation Week).
Not having to go through the court process really helps families avoid added stress. Going to court can prolong proceedings and, in some cases, lead to bitter confrontations between separating couples. With mediation the emphasis is on reaching an agreement and finding solutions by exploring the options.
The terms agreed on during mediation sessions can be used as the basis for a consent order when a full and final settlement is required in divorce proceedings. Taking part in mediation can therefore save divorcing couples time compared to going down the traditional legal route.
Mediation is particularly helpful when children are involved. The process can help secure an outcome regarding access more swiftly, meaning that new routines can be established for children helping them to adjust to the new family situation sooner rather than later.
Mediation helps families find a way forward during a difficult time.
Ward Gethin Archer’s Family Mediation Service
We provide mediation for all family matters at all of our offices: Chatteris, Dereham, Downham Market, Ely, Heacham, King’s Lynn (Tuesday Market Place and Regis Place), Swaffham and Watton.
To find out more about mediation or to refer yourself to mediation, contact Trained Mediator Sarah Fairbrother on 01553 667250 or email sarah.fairbrother@wga.co.uk
This article aims to supply general information, but it is not intended to constitute advice. Every effort is made to ensure that the law referred to is correct at the date of publication and to avoid any statement which may mislead. However, no duty of care is assumed to any person and no liability is accepted for any omission or inaccuracy. Always seek our specific advice.
