Child inclusive mediation offers that opportunity to children to feel they have been consulted. It is still for the children’s parents or caregivers to make the final decisions but it can only be valuable for children to know they were listened to. They can say what they would like and then the mediator will relay their thoughts to their parents but only what they want to say to them. The children are in control of what gets passed on. There is no formal record kept so it is not to be used within subsequent family court proceedings but it is thoughtful way to include them in decision making.
I do hope more parents will be minded to take up this option, as the research undertaken in this area does suggest children can often feel left in the dark, knowing their parents are separating but not really understanding what is happening.
If you would like to explore this option further, please do not hesitate to contact Gemma Gillespie or Melissa Gire on 01892 515022 or by email at gjg@cooperburnett.com
This blog is not intended as legal advice that can be relied upon and CooperBurnett LLP does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of its contents.
