This past year times have been a little different. COVID-19 has been a huge disruption to our normal lives and for those of you going through a separation or divorce it has been even more challenging.

As it was Family Mediation Week from the 18^th – 22^nd January 2021, I am here to highlight what family mediation is, how it can help you in your situation and give you some advice on how mediation is a viable option for you through these tough times.

What is Family Mediation week?

‘This week aims to raise awareness of mediation and how it can help separating families manage their issues collaboratively and productively.’

How can family mediation help me?

Meditation for families going through a separation has many benefits and is an option that many couples don’t consider. It has a lot of advantages over other means of settling financial and family focussed issues that come with the breakdown of a relationship. The main goals when using a mediator is to reach an amicable agreement on all topics of discussion, make decisions together that suit all parties involved and avoid the high costs and high stress of bitter court battles.

Mediation can help couples, especially those who have children to consider, to secure a much better outcome for everyone.

Is Family Mediation still an option through COVID?

In short, YES, family mediation is still a viable option for you during this pandemic. If anything, it is a better option for anyone currently going through a separation or divorce that would like to reach a harmonious outcome whilst saving on expensive court and solicitor costs.

The benefits of mediation during the current pandemic include:

• It can be done anywhere – we are running all meetings online. I can reassure you that holding these sessions over a zoom video call still allows us to deliver the high standard service, without losing any of the benefits of mediation.
• Life is already stressful enough – most of us have been affected in one way or another by COVID and the struggles it has brought, so why apply more stress and financial pressure to you and your families lives than necessary. Using a mediator online can help to peacefully settle disagreements and find an outcome that suits everyone.
• It is better for any children involved – children’s worlds have been turned upside down, not being able to go to school and not being allowed to see their friends. As their parents you can make a family breakdown one less thing for them to worry about. By using a mediator and working together to establish a positive outlook, you can enable your children to feel less stress through this situation.

How can I find more information?

During the week, you can find resources, information and blogs here to help separating couples decide whether mediation is for them and discuss the benefits of family mediation.

If you think mediation is the right solution for you and your family, look through my website and get in touch for more advice on how I can help you through your situation.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me on 07510 711453 or via my contact page.