Parenting and Children’s Arrangements
Ruth Schocken Katz, mediator
Family Mediation for Separated Parents
Family mediation supports separated parents to agree child-focused arrangements, reduce uncertainty, and build a workable plan for day-to-day life. It is practical, confidential and designed to help you move forward without court where possible.
What Family Mediation Covers
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Parenting plans: routines, handovers, holidays and special occasions.
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Communication: how you will share information and make future decisions.
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Change over time: reviewing arrangements as children grow, or where circumstances shift.
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Child-related finances: discussing practical contributions and budgeting where helpful.
How Family Mediation Works
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MIAM for each parent (individual).
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Joint sessions to work through your agenda in a structured way.
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Written summary of proposals and parenting plan, so you both have clarity.
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If you want legal formality, you can take the summary to a solicitor for advice and next steps.
Child-Inclusive Mediation
(Where Appropriate)
In some cases, and only where both parents agree and it is appropriate, children (usually aged 10 or above) can be offered a chance to share their views in a safe way. This is not about asking children to choose. It is about ensuring their voice is heard, with their consent, to inform your decisions as parents.
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Thank you, Ruth, for the calm, kind, helpful, empathetic way you dealt with our relationship issues. You helped us defuse the situation and thus earned the trust of both parties, by putting yourself in the shoes of each and helping us do the same.
"Despite our differences, you helped us to collaborate again as parents and focus on the children's best interests."
Family Mediation FAQs
Is family mediation compulsory?
Mediation is voluntary, but in many situations a MIAM is expected before making certain applications to the family court in England and Wales, unless an exemption applies.
Can I get a family mediation voucher?
The family mediation voucher scheme was set up by the UK government to support families through the mediation process. If you qualify, the voucher is worth up to £500 towards the costs of mediation.
What if we cannot agree?
If you cannot reach proposals, you can explore other routes such as solicitor negotiation or court. Even partial progress can be valuable, and mediation discussions remain confidential.
Can we do family mediation online?
Yes. Online mediation via Zoom is available, and a hybrid approach can be arranged where helpful.