Mediation for Parenting Agreements
We have a team of specially trained Mediators who are experienced in all matters regarding Mediation for Parenting Agreements.
Our Mediation team appreciate the breakdown of a relationship is a difficult and distressing time for all concerned, and because of this, you will receive expert impartial support from our trained mediators.
When going through separation, sometimes the hardest part is how to discuss and negotiate the most suitable arrangements which meet the needs of your children. Often both parents will want to establish a way to see their children on a regular basis, and when parents work together, this can be possible.
Book your MIAM
Our Family Mediation team are here to take the worry off your hands. We offer a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) to discuss whether ongoing mediation is appropriate for your circumstances.
To ensure we are able to deal with your enquiry efficiently, please contact us for further information via email at enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk, or you can complete a referral form here.
What is Mediation for Parenting Agreements?
Mediation to establish Parenting Agreements, is a process, whereby a professionally trained Mediator is able independently and impartially to facilitate clear communication between parties, allowing yourself and your ex, to explore options relating to your children. This provides an opportunity for parents establish mutually acceptable arrangements on various issues, such as:
- Child Arrangements pre school
- Term time arrangements and routine
- School holidays and cover for working parents
- Special days ( Birthdays, Mother’s and Father’s day etc.)
- Christmas festive arrangements
- Educational arrangements and communications with school and extra curricular events
- Medical routine and non routine protocol
- Financial support CMS and additional activities
- Parental consultation as opposed to parental sharing of information
- Retaining communication with extended relatives
- Parental communications and boundaries
- Expectation of parents over parenting
- Partners
- Areas of specific concern /risk.
Mediation is a voluntary and preferred process option of the Courts. It is designed to enable parents to continue making decisions for their children in a cooperative manner. Parents cannot be forced into an arrangement. Parents remain in control of their family outcome.
A Mediator will manage, support and help inform parents make decisions for the benefit of their child/ren. Our specially trained Mediators provide a safe environment for parents to hear and to be heard ,to discuss and explore options, to establish arrangements, which work for each individual family. Arrangements made in a mediation process may be set out in a Memorandum of Understanding incorporating the proposed parenting plans.
How does it work?
The great thing about the process of Mediation for parenting arrangements, is that it can be tailored to suit your needs, availability and preference. There are numerous ways in which a Mediation session can take place, such as:
- Face-to-face meetings: In face-to-face meetings, both parties are present in the same Mediation room with a trained Mediator. The role of the Mediator in this instance is to impartially manage your process, and help you come to an agreement that suits everyone.
- Shuttle Meetings: We understand that sometimes some parties are willing to take part in mediation, however, they would prefer to go through this process separately. During Shuttle Meetings individual parties will have their own separate and private room. In this case the Mediator will move between each room and update each party on the views and proposals made by the other.
- Remote Meetings: There are occasions whereby it is difficult to be in the same place at the same time, and due to the Coronavirus outbreak, carrying out remote Mediation sessions has allowed for us to continue assisting those who require them. In the appropriate circumstances remote mediation sessions may be suitable and offered to parties via the use of Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp video calling. Remote Mediation can take place using the ‘face to face’ or ‘shuttle’ process.
What are the benefits of Mediation?
The Mediation process is a beneficial way of exploring different options in order to work out which will be the best option for you, your partner and children. Mediation sessions take place in a confidential and non-judgemental environment to ensure families feel safe to discuss their problems and anxieties freely, allowing them to make arrangements for the future.
The sessions allow for both parties to come to an amicable agreement regarding, parenting and financial arrangements and their children.
Mediation can be Free for those who are eligible.
How we can help
Our specially trained Family Mediators are able to provide impartial support during what may be a difficult and distressing time.
The level of help you would like from us is entirely up to you. Our team members all have experience of helping people at difficult times in their lives and we are committed to delivering to you a professional and confidential service.
Location
Our specially trained Mediators are able to provide impartial support across the country, using remote platforms.
In addition, we have a network of offices based in: Chesterfield, Nottingham, Mansfield and Derby.
How to make contact
Our team are on hand to help you and can assist wherever you are based. Please email enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk for further information, or complete a referral form.
