Child Inclusive Mediation
We have a specialist team who are experienced and qualified to undertake Child Inclusive Mediation.
Our team appreciate that the breakdown of a relationship is a difficult and distressing time for all concerned, especially children.
When going through divorce or separation, it can be hard to find suitable arrangements for your children. Child Inclusive Mediation can assist parents to work together and take on board their children’s views.
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 Child Inclusive Mediation?
Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM) used to be known as Direct Child Consultation (DCC) and is often referred to as “The Voice of the Child”.
The Government suggests, in appropriate circumstances children may be consulted about the arrangements which are being made for their care. There is an expectation that children aged 10 and above should have a say in the arrangements and access to a Mediator when decisions about their future are being discussed and proposed during Mediation.
How does Child Inclusive Mediation work?
Child Inclusive Mediators have to undergo additional and specialist training and have experience before this service can be offered. It is important to ensure that any children feel they are in a safe environment and are willingly participating, in the knowledge that what they say is confidential, unless they agree for it to be shared or an exception applies.
During a CIM session children can either be seen on their own or with siblings to discuss how they feel about a situation.
The process of CIM provides an opportunity for children and young people to think about and discuss their needs freely in a trustworthy environment. It allows for children to have their voices heard without the fear of upsetting either of their parents. The idea of CIM is so that children feel as though their views are respected and listened to, so that they do not feel isolated during their parent’s separation or divorce.
Why is Child Inclusive Mediation important?
Separation or divorce is a difficult and distressing time for everyone involved, especially children. It can often leave them feeling bewildered or that their opinions do not matter when it comes to child arrangements.
The CIM process reassures children that their parents respect their views and opinions and are taking them into consideration when making arrangements. The sessions allow for children to speak freely knowing that only expressly permitted information will be given to their parents/carers.
How do I know if Child Inclusive Mediation is appropriate for me?
It is not always appropriate to involve children within Mediation. To understand whether this would be appropriate for your situation, Mediators would discuss with both parents/ carers, the CIM process, clarifying why they are seeking CIM and what they are hoping to understand from their child/ children. This will occur prior to CIM taking place and will include the Mediator, explaining the benefits and any potential drawbacks, which may arise as a result, of a CIM.
How we can help
Our specialist team of Child Inclusive 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 Mediation services 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.
