The benefits of family mediation

Family mediation is where a trained professional helps you to resolve important family issues. It often takes place following a divorce or separation, with the aim of helping ex-partners to reach an agreement that works well for both parties.

Issues to be focused on can include:

• Finances

• Child maintenance payments

• Child arrangements

But what exactly are the benefits of family mediation?

Avoid the court

Family court proceedings can be lengthy, expensive and incredibly stressful. Family mediation, on the other hand, can lead to family problems being resolved in as little as one session.

Conflicts and disagreements are difficult enough without the intervention of the court. The legal battles that ensue are often detrimental to both financial and emotional well-being. In some cases, they can lead to further family breakdowns.

Mediation, on the other hand, is all about keeping things as comfortable, supportive and stress free as possible.

Promote better communication

Improving communication doesn’t just have benefits in the here and now. Following mediation, everyone will be equipped with better communication skills which will set them in good stead for the future. Should any further issues arise, they’ll be in a much better position to negotiate and make agreements with their ex-partner.

If things get heated during a mediation session, the mediator will be there to diffuse conflict. With a trained, neutral third party in the room, tensions will be kept to a minimum. Conversations will be guided, with the aim of reaching a resolution that works for both parties.

Negotiate child arrangements

If you and your partner agree on child arrangements through mediation, you’ll have more choice over important decisions that affect the future of you and your family. Rather than having the fate of your childcare arrangements resting in the hands of a judge, you can decide what works best for everyone involved.

Family mediation can also be much more child-focused. It can help to improve co-parenting, and resolve issues concerning how much time a child spends with each parent. Unlike the court, you can focus each session on unique problems that need solving.

Resolve financial disputes

Finances can be a major source of stress and conflict, and having to wait a long time for a court case will likely exacerbate any money issues. In family mediation, you and your ex-partner can work at resolving financial issues quickly and effectively.

Whether it’s child maintenance issues, debts or financial settlements that you need to resolve, a family mediator will always listen to everyone’s perspective. They’ll help you to take a step back from the heightened emotions of the situation and decide on the best course of action moving forwards.

Ready to make a start? Contact anna@turningpointmediation.co.uk to see if mediation is right for you.