Family Mediation Week 2025
Separating Parents Urged to Avoid Courtroom Conflict as Family Mediation Week Kicks Off in the UK
Parents in the UK who are separating or divorcing in 2025 are being encouraged to avoid courtroom confrontations when settling financial and parenting arrangements. This advice comes as Family Mediation Week runs from January 27 to 31.
January often sees a rise in separations, as the pressures of the Christmas period can be the final straw for many relationships.
Elizabeth Bilton, a Solicitor, Accredited Mediator, Direct Child Consultant, and PPC at Midlands Dove Mediation/Elliot Mather LLP, which serves Chesterfield, Derby, Mansfield, Nottingham, and nationwide, explains that Family Mediation Week aims to raise awareness of the benefits of family mediation. This process helps ex-partners agree on arrangements without the stress, delay, and cost of going to court.
She says: “Many parents emerge from the festive period feeling overwhelmed by the pressures on relationships and finances highlighted during the holidays.
“Here in the East Midlands, we find that parents in this situation often don’t know where to turn. Their decision to separate brings many tough questions:
- Who lives where?
- Where will the children live, and how will we ensure we both spend time with them?
- How will we sort out finances?
- What about debts and pensions?
- And even the family dog?
“Family Mediation Week shines a helpful spotlight on these tricky issues, offering separating parents information about their options as they make arrangements for parenting, property, and finances.
“Family mediation is a process where an independent, professionally-trained mediator helps you work these things out, enabling you to avoid courtroom confrontation. Professional mediators empower you to create long-term solutions for your particular circumstances, rather than leaving it to a court to make decisions for your family.”
Separating parents could receive up to £500 in government assistance towards the cost of family mediation.
We welcome the news that the Family Mediation Voucher scheme has been extended to March 2026. This scheme provides separating couples with vouchers worth up to £500 to help them make settlements using family mediation. Government figures show that over 27,000 families across England and Wales have been supported through amicable separation by the scheme. We can apply to the scheme on your behalf and secure the financial support you need if you are eligible.
For a free initial consultation, please call 01623 706020 or email enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk.
