Who Can Benefit from Mediation?
Mediation can help any parents or guardians seeking to organise practical arrangements for children after separation. Our service is suitable even if:
- Communication is difficult
- You’re unsure where your child will live.
- You need clarity around holidays, schooling, or healthcare decisions.
Our qualified family mediators will look at all family matters. They are most concerned with a child’s welfare and will always work with adults who have parental responsibility – to ensure that the child’s best interests are at the forefront of any discussions. Here at EH Mediation, we understand that separation is a difficult time. Family issues can cause emotions to run high. In your first meeting, we will explain our collaborative process to help you resolve disputes fast.
What If One Parent Doesn't Stick to the child arrangements Mediation Gloucester?
A common concern is what happens if, once an agreement has been reached, one parent fails to follow it. The answer depends on whether your agreement is legally binding.
Parenting Plan (Non-Binding)
Agreements reached in mediation can be written up as a Parenting Plan—a document both parents sign and commit to, but which is not automatically enforceable in court. Many families find this works well, particularly where communication has improved through the mediation process.
Consent Order (Legally Binding)
A Court Consent Order is when you apply to the court for your agreement to become legally binding. It is a legal document signed by a judge that converts your mediated agreement into a court order. The other parent can then apply to the court for enforcement if either fails to comply.
We strongly recommend obtaining independent legal advice on whether a Consent Order is right for you. Your mediator can elaborate on both options.
FAQs: Child Arrangements Mediation Gloucester
What is child arrangements mediation?
An optional process in which a neutral mediator facilitates parents’ communication to help reach mutually acceptable shared arrangements for their children, emphasising the child’s best interests.
Is mediation mandatory?
Mediation is voluntary, but before applying to court for a Child Arrangements Order, you usually need to attend a MIAM to demonstrate you considered mediation first. Exceptions exist, e.g., cases involving domestic abuse.
What is a MIAM?
A one-on-one meeting with a mediator to explain mediation, assess suitability, and explore goals. Only after this can full joint sessions occur.
What can we discuss in mediation?
Topics include:
- Where children live and when
- Contact schedules, weekends, and holidays
- Decisions about schooling and healthcare
- Communication methods between parents
What happens if we do not reach an agreement?
The mediator will clarify issues and help narrow areas of disagreement. You can always go through court proceedings if you have to.
If communication is not good, can mediation help?
Yes. Mediators are trained to manage conflict constructively.
Remote / Shuttle mediation: Solutions of this type enable parents to participate without being physically together.
Can children be involved?
Children are usually not directly involved. Child-inclusive mediation is available in specific circumstances to ensure their views are considered.
Will mediation impact my legal rights?
No. Mediation does not waive your legal rights. You can make your agreement legal and binding by way of a consent order.
Do mediators provide legal advice?
No. Mediators advise about options and processes but do not give individual legal advice.
How long does mediation take?
It depends on your situation. Some families get to an agreement in just a few sessions; others take longer. The sessions are structured for clarity and efficiency.
Are mediation sessions confidential?
Yes. Sessions are private, and information is processed securely. A goal of mediation is to allow open dialogue in a safe space.
How quickly can we get started?
We aim to offer MIAM appointments promptly, often within a few days of your enquiry. Joint sessions can follow shortly after, depending on both parties’ availability. Getting started is as simple as calling us or requesting a callback.
Do we have to live near each other for mediation to work?
No. We offer remote mediation via video call, so both parents can participate from different locations — whether tthat’sacross town or across the country. This also makes it easier to arrange sessions around work and childcare commitments.
What if my situation changes after we’ve reached an agreement?
Life changes — children grow up, circumstances shift, and arrangements that worked well at one point may need to be revisited. You can return to mediation at any point to discuss and update your child arrangements, often much more quickly and cheaply than going back to court.