What is family mediation?
Family mediation is a confidential, voluntary process in which a neutral third party, the mediator, supports parents and children through family change and disruption, particularly where it has occurred as a result of separation or divorce.A family mediator helps families to communicate better and to make their own arrangements for the future, particularly for their children. The aim of mediation is to help people find a solution which meets as many of their needs - and those of their children - as possible, and which everyone feels is fair. Mediation can help avoid long, painful and expensive legal battles.
Family mediation services are provided by Family Mediation South Lanarkshire, you can contact us if you have any questions about family mediation or if you would like to arrange an appointment to see a family mediator.You can get more information on managing your separation or divorce on our parents page.
Our ‘what most children say’ page provides a short guide to how break-ups effect children, the messages are clear and simple and are backed-up by research findings.
Who is it for?
It is for all sorts of families: married and unmarried, younger and older, with or without children. Grandparents, step-parents and children can all be included, but it is primarily for parents whose relationship is over – it is not about helping parents to get back together again.
Who can come?
Mediation can be helpful once communication breaks down. This may be:during, or some time after a relationship breakdown as a result of families re-forming when parents, step-parents, grandparents or young people identify there are communication and practical arrangements which need to be resolved.
Family mediation can help them to negotiate or re-negotiate arrangements.
How does it work?
You will be offered an individual meeting where information and options will be discussed. If mediation is appropriate a mediator will see both people whose relationship has broken down together. The service is flexible and will be there for as many sessions as are needed. The aim is to agree on practical, workable arrangements, taking into account children’s views, needs and feelings.
Mediatiors do not give legal advice, offer counselling/therapy or make decisions for you.
How can it help?
Family mediation helps families plan for the future. It offers the service of qualified impartial mediators who help people to communicate in a neutral environment. Mediators work with families through an organised and constructive process without making decisions for them.
How much will it cost?
Mediation is free but we do accept donations to help with the running costs of the service.
Who are the mediators?
They are fully trained professionals who have a full knowledge of the complexity of all aspects of separation and divorce. They are all accredited by Family Mediation Scotland.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Parents can talk freely and frankly in mediation. What occurs during family mediation cannot be used in civil proceedings unless both parties want it to be or if there are issues regarding children’s safety or criminal activities.
What about the courts?
Family mediation is available to help parents make arrangements without recourse to the legal process. However, if you go to court, even at that stage the sheriff can insist you attend a mediation service.
What other services do you offer? We also offer Child Contact Centres across South Lanarkshire, these centres provide a child-friendly neutral venue where a parent who lives apart from their children can spend time with them. Check our Contact Centres page for further information. Our partners, Relate Lanarkshire and Scottish Marriage Care, provide a range of Relationship Counselling Services.