More than 70% of separating couples resolve disputes successfully through family mediation.

That is according to a survey published by The Family Mediation Council to coincide with Family Mediation Week, which runs from January 20 to January 24.

The survey showed that where both of the people separating go and see a family mediator for an initial individual assessment meeting, three quarters choose to go on to mediate.

Professional family mediators act as neutral third parties to help ex-partners have conversations about issues such as what arrangements will be best for any children, and what will happen with finances.

Commenting on the survey carried out in the Autumn of 2019, John Taylor, chair of the Family Mediation Council said: “It is not surprising that so many people who attend a first meeting with a mediator chose to go on to mediate.”

“The meeting, sometimes called a Mediation Information and Assessment meeting, or MIAM, provides people with an opportunity to find out what family mediation is, how it might work for them and the practicalities and costs involved, as well as the alternatives if they choose not to mediate.”

“Once people realise that family mediation is less expensive than being represented in court proceedings, as well as being less stressful and quicker than the court process, most realise it is a conversation worth having.”

Organised by the Family Mediators Association, Family Mediation Week aims to raise awareness of family mediation and how it can help separating families manage their issues collaboratively and productively. You can find out more about the campaign by visiting www.familymediationweek.org.uk

Through our sister company, Town Gate Mediation, Phillips directors Howard Gardener and Hayley Eachus are family mediators.

From February 1, when Phillips merge with Brain Chase Coles Solicitors, Howard and Hayley will join forces as mediators with Sheila Parkes, Elizabeth Ford and Ann Davis.

Together they will provide mediation services under the Haymarket Family Mediation banner, based at our Town Gate offices in London Street, Basingstoke.

If you would like to get in touch with Town Gate Mediation, please call Hayley Eachus on 01256 854633 or email [email protected]