More than any other time of the year, January is a month when families decide to separate.

For most, this will be their first experience of separation, and they will start searching for help and advice about where to turn for help to resolve issues – who will the children live with? What will happen with money?

England’s third national lockdown doesn’t make it any less likely that people will be asking these questions. If anything, it simply adds to confusion, or uncertainty, about what services might be available. People may not be sure where to turn.

This is why Haymarket Family Mediation, which is part of Phillips Solicitors, is supporting Family Mediation Week, which runs until January 22. Organised by the Family Mediation Council, the week aims to provide answers, by sharing information about the mediation process, explaining how Family Mediation Council registered mediators can help families consider what is best for their future, and how mediation is available online to help them during the coronavirus pandemic.

Throughout Family Mediation Week, the Family Mediation Council will be sharing information about family mediation to help people understand more about how it works, when it might be suitable, the importance of involving older children in the process of deciding what happens to them, and how it can be funded – including through legal aid.

Should you wish to discuss family mediation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sheila Parkes who heads Haymarket Family Mediation by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01256 854652.

Alternatively, click here to go to our contact page.

Our mediators and staff are able to work remotely so Phillips Solicitors and Haymarket Family Mediation remain fully open for business.  Mediation and appointments can take place by zoom or other virtual platforms so you can be assured that we are able to meet your needs and we can discuss any questions you may have about this in advance and by telephone. During these difficult times, our Town Gate office in Basingstoke is temporarily closed to visitors unless by prior appointment and when meeting in person is essential.