Separating or divorcing is nearly always a painful experience for the whole family. Organising children’s residential and contact arrangements can place an enormous strain on both parents and children that may lead to decisions being made that do not suit either party.

Mediation is a mutual problem solving process for separated couples. It is a process in which a trained impartial third party helps the parents to negotiate their issues.

How Does It Work

Initially the parties are interviewed separately. Then the parents meet with trained mediators, usually for two sessions.  Using an orderly procedure the parties are helped to:

• Identify and clarify matters of concern and areas of agreement and disagreement
• Review the individual needs and resources, financial and otherwise, of each family member
• Develop plans which meet everyone's needs as fairly as possible
• The result of the mediation is a Parenting Plan which includes the decisions made by the couple covering the arrangements for their children.

This agreement is not legally binding. If the couple wishes to make it so, they need to contact the family court to have consent orders drafted.

What are the Benefits?

Mediation

·        Creates a supportive and constructive environment

• Guarantees privacy and confidentially
• Maintains the individuals dignity
• Promotes communication between parties
• Reduces emotional distress
• Controls costs
• Teaches an effective way of resolving future conflicts
• Emphasises children's need for love and support