Information and advice for parenting and children

Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging times in a person's life, especially when children are involved. At Mediation First, we understand the complexities and emotional toll that divorce proceedings can have on families. Our goal is to provide you with guidance and support to help you navigate your next steps.

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What are typical child contact arrangements?

What are typical child contact arrangements?

If you are a parent and are considering a separation or divorce.....

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Co-parenting vs parallel parenting

Co-parenting vs parallel parenting

Some couples that separate or go through a divorce, may find that they can maintain an amicable relationship......

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A step-by-step guide to completing a C100 form

A step-by-step guide to completing a C100 form

Understanding how to fill in a C100 form is crucial for those seeking to resolve disputes......

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Relocating after divorce with a child

Relocating after divorce with a child

Whether you wish to relocate to another part of the UK or move permanently abroad .....

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Reasons to Stop Child Contact

Reasons to Stop Child Contact

Ideally, both of a child's parents would be equally involved in caring for them. However, everyone's circumstances are different .....

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Guide to making a C2 form application

Guide to making a C2 form application

If you are applying for a court order regarding child arrangements, the formal process is to make an application on a C100 form......

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Reasons to vary a child arrangement order

Reasons to vary a child arrangement order

When a relationship ends, making decisions about the welfare of any children can be challenging.....

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Co-parenting tips for divorced parents

Co-parenting tips for divorced parents

Divorce is rarely easy, especially with children involved.....

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What can I do if I am denied access to my child?

What can I do if I am denied access to my child?

Being denied access to your child can be a challenging experience.....

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Can a mother stop the father
                       seeing the child in the UK?

Can a mother stop the father seeing the child in the UK?

During a divorce or separation, emotions can run high......

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What should child maintenance cover?

What should child maintenance cover?

Ensuring the wellbeing of your child remains a top priority......

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Parental responsibility: Your rights

Parental responsibility: Your rights in England and Wales

Understanding your parental rights and responsibilities is crucial.....

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How can I see my child without going to court?

How can I see my child without going to court?

Navigating the path of parenthood can be a daunting journey.. .....

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What rights does a father have to see his child?

What rights does a father have to see his child?

It is not uncommon for a parent to refer to their ability to have a relationship with their child....

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A guide to child arrangements

A guide to child arrangements

The journey of figuring out child arrangements after separation can be tough....

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What to do if your child refuses contact with the other parent

What to do if your child refuses contact with the other parent

Dealing with a situation where your child refuses to see their other parent can be challenging.......

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What questions does a mediator ask a child?

What questions does a mediator ask a child?

Navigating family disputes and divorces can be challenging, and it's essential to prioritise the wellbeing of children involved.......

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A guide to child-inclusive mediation

A guide to child-inclusive mediation

Divorce can be a difficult and stressful experience for children, and their well-being should be a top priority......

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Making a parenting plan

Making a parenting plan

A parenting plan is a written document created by separated parents that outlines how they will parent their children following separation....

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Grandparents’ rights to see grandchildren

Grandparents’ rights to see grandchildren

his article looks at the rights that grandparents have to see their grandchildren....

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Speak to a parenting and divorce mediator

Facing parenting and divorce challenges? Our team offers both online and in person family mediation services to help you find amicable solutions from the comfort of your home. Flexible and accessible, our services are designed to ease the process for families in transition.

Reach out today at 0330 320 7600, email office@mediationfirst.co.uk. or, fill out our online form on our contact page.

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How can I make the divorce process easier for my children?

The key to easing the divorce process for children lies in maintaining open, age-appropriate communication. It’s important to explain the situation in terms they can understand, without overwhelming them with details or adult concerns. Maintaining as much stability in their daily routines as possible helps provide a sense of normalcy.

Prioritising effective co-parenting strategies that focus on the children’s well-being is crucial for their adjustment and long-term health.

Who is responsible for child arrangements in a divorce?

Child arrangements might be sole or shared, involving both the authority to make significant decisions about the children's upbringing, and decisions on where the children will live. If parents can’t agree on arrangements through child mediation, the court will make a decision based on what it deems best for the child, potentially involving evaluations and recommendations from child welfare professionals.

How should we handle financial support for the children?

Child support is a legal obligation, calculated based on guidelines that consider the financial situation of both parents, the number of children, and their needs. These guidelines are designed to ensure that children maintain a standard of living similar to what they would have experienced if the family remained together.

The process involves declaring income, understanding allowable deductions, and considering special expenses such as healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities. If circumstances change significantly for either parent, child support amounts can be adjusted.