Children First Family Mediation

27/05/2026

🤝TRUST

When emotions are high, mediation provides calm.
When communication breaks down, mediation rebuilds it.
When decisions feel difficult, mediation guides you forward.

👨‍👩‍👧Children.🏡 Property. 💰Finances.
Resolved through trusted mediation.

20/05/2026

👥 A MIAM, or Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, is your first step before heading to court for family disputes!

What happens at a MIAM?
- Meet with a qualified mediator (45-60 mins)
- Learn how mediation works
- Discuss your situation: children, property, finances
- Assess suitability and safety
- Ask questions—No strings attached!

Topics covered include:
✨ Child arrangements / shared parenting
🏠 Property & housing post-separation
💰 Financial settlements
🗨️ Parent communication
🚫 Avoiding court options

Is it required? Yes, in many cases! Before applying for:
👶 Child arrangements
⚖️ Parental disputes
💸 Finances after separation

You usually need to attend unless exemptions apply.

After the meeting…
🔄 Mediation starts!
🤝 Shuttle mediation offered (separate zoom call/room)
✅ Mediator signs the court form so you can apply!

15/05/2026

Mental Health Awareness Week highlights the immense pressure that divorce or separation can place on individuals.

The feelings of worry and uncertainty about the future are common, but addressing these emotions is crucial for mental health.

Family mediation offers a structured environment where all parties can express their thoughts safely.

This process fosters respectful dialogue, aiding in conflict reduction while ensuring healthier co-parenting relationships.

If you or someone you know requires assistance during this time, please reach out to us!

📞 Contact details 📩 0161 763 8793
https://childrenfirstfamilymediation.org.uk/referral-form/

13/05/2026

Who should consider mediation?
* Parents separating or divorcing who need child arrangements
* Families wanting shared or equal parenting agreements
* Parents struggling to agree contact, holidays, or routines
* Couples needing to resolve property and housing arrangements
* Those who need help agreeing finances, bills, or assets after separation
* Parents wanting to avoid court and reduce conflict
* Families needing a clear, written parenting plan
* Grandparents seeking time with grandchildren
* Couples who communicate poorly but want a calm, neutral discussion
* Anyone wanting a faster, more affordable alternative to court

11/05/2026

Today is the start of Mental Health Awareness Week. We’re shouting loudly that great mental health care isn't just clinical, it's human. It’s the kind voice at the end of the phone when you’re worried about rent and too unwell to work. It’s the adviser who listens actively, rather than waiting for their turn to speak. And it's you reminding friends and loved ones that these contact details can save lives. Please share 💙

11/05/2026

This is never more true than in a separation, and it's never harder than in a separation!

Here are 3 simple tips to help:

1. Remember that it's highly unlikely that your children have the same view of your ex as you. They are their parent and that role hasn't changed. Your view of them as a spouse may have changed significantly. There is room for your perspective and your children's perspectives and you don't need to share your perspective with your children.

2. Your children may mask how they're feeling so that they don't upset you or cause you any more worry. Be aware of this and notice changes in their behaviour. It may help them to have an independent person to talk to. This could be a family member or friend if they can be impartial but could also be a teacher, ELSA or counsellor in school or therapeutic support away from school.

3. There are going to be moments where it's awful for you and awful for them and it may well happen at the same time. You might think things will never be any better but they will. Hold on to this.

For more guidance with a separation you can find free downloads and our self-study course on separation on our website.

https://lkwfamilymediation.co.uk/services-for-those-going-through-a-separation/

11/05/2026

🌈 NEW EVENT: LGBTQ+ Families Online Coffee Evening 🌈

🗓️ Tuesday 12th May
🕢 19:30 – 20:30 (Online)

We’re launching a new monthly online space for LGBTQ+ parents and carers to come together, connect, and relax in a warm, supportive community setting.

This is a gentle, informal hour to share a cuppa, meet other LGBTQ+ parents and carers, and build connections in a safe and welcoming space.

🔗 More info: www.proud2bparents.co.uk/upcoming-events
🔒 Families must be registered with Proud 2 b Parents to attend

We’re really excited to launch this new space and grow it with our community.

11/05/2026

Why choose Children First Family Mediation?

Child-focused approach – decisions are centred on what’s best for your children, not conflict between parents.

Avoid court where possible – mediation is designed to resolve disputes calmly without lengthy legal battles.

Faster and less stressful – mediation often takes significantly less time than going through solicitors and court proceedings.

Affordable options – many families may qualify for Legal Aid or low-cost sessions. Family Mediation Voucher Scheme = £500 per family for children’s matters

Flexible appointments – both face-to-face sessions across the North West and online sessions nationwide

Support with all family issues – including child arrangements, parenting plans, property, finances and communication.

06/05/2026