Family solicitors - Child mediation

Direct access with children, as part of the family mediation process

Our trained and accredited family mediators will meet with appropriate children and speak to them. While family mediation is typically between adult parties, in some instances child-inclusive mediation may be required. Through direct child-inclusive consultation, our family mediators can speak confidentially to children, establishing an appropriate level of trust. They are trained to speak to them in an appropriate way and will only report back to parents what a child is comfortable with.

At Anthony Collins Solicitors, we have family mediators who are accredited to speak directly to children, normally over the age of nine, independently from their parents. In our experience, this can be beneficial as, sometimes, children’s views cannot be accurately ascertained by the parents. This can be because they do not want to speak to their parents about this topic or, more commonly, they can give conflicting and contradictory views to each parent because they are trying to please them both. We find that direct communication often helps children, as it makes them feel like they have a voice. Often it is helpful to hear directly from children, both about how how they are coping and what their views are. It can also help parties to consider, where applicable, the effect of their continuing conflict upon children.

We are happy to talk to you about child-inclusive family mediation and how it could work for you. We also provide mediation services for:

• Separating couples without children
• Separating couples with children
• Grandparents

For further information

To find out more about how we can be your family mediator, inclusive of children, please contact a member of our family mediation team: Chris Lloyd-Smith or Maria Ramon.

We’ve produced a glossary of family mediation terms to help you get started.

Other organisations that can support you with marriage counselling, citizens advice, domestic violence and parenting support can be found here.

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