As part of Family Mediation week, I was honoured to have the opportunity to present to a number of Judges, Magistrates, CAFCASS and family lawyers this evening on Child Inclusive Mediation, with some mediation colleagues.
Giving a child a voice in any process regarding their future and arrangements is very useful in resolving disputes, and helpful for both children and parents. As a qualified Child Inclusive Mediator I am always keen to explore options with parents to avoid litigation and reach resolution of issues which is in everyone’s best interest.
If you would like to know more about Child Inclusive Mediation or the mediation process, please get in touch.
Children benefit from and value their views and opinions being heard. Although their views will be discussed during the mediation process (if the child agrees to this) our mediators will help the child understand that they are not responsible for any decisions and that the parents remain the decision makers in the mediation process. Often children express the view that they would like to talk to someone neutral when their parents are separating and like to be invited to see and talk to the mediator, without feeling they have to make the decisions. Direct consultation with children can help parents to listen more to their children and to each other and to make good decisions.
https://www.freeths.co.uk/legal-services/individuals/family-law/child-inclusive-mediation/