Choosing a constructive path for separating families in Saffron Walden
As we move into the start of a new year, many families find themselves at a crossroads. January is often cited as a peak time for couples to consider separation, but it does not have to be a period defined by conflict and legal battles. Family Mediation Week 2026, an annual initiative by the Family Mediation Council (FMC), runs from 26 to 30 January 2026. This national campaign aims to shine a light on how mediation can help separating couples take control of their future without the need for a courtroom.
The purpose of Family Mediation Week is to raise awareness about the benefits of a process that is often misunderstood. Many people believe that divorce inevitably involves solicitors and judges making life-changing decisions on their behalf. Mediation flips this narrative. It is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral professional helps couples reach their own agreements regarding their children and finances. By focusing on communication rather than litigation, mediation reduces the emotional and financial toll that a breakdown in a marriage can take.
At EB & Co. Mediation, we see every day how transformative this approach can be for families in Saffron Walden and the surrounding areas. Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers work closely with couples to navigate what we call the “five strands” of separation: the legal divorce, arrangements for children, child maintenance, financial disclosure, and long-term affordability. By addressing these areas in a neutral environment, parents can focus on what truly matters—the well-being of their children and the creation of a stable foundation for two separate households.
Public webinars for Family Mediation Week 2026
To help the public understand more about the mediation process and manage the emotional challenges of separation, the Family Mediation Council is hosting a series of free webinars. You can find the full timetable and registration links for all sessions below:
- Family mediation week launch event Monday 26 January, 9:00 am – 10:00 am A session to launch the week’s events with the FMC and special guests. Register here
- Family separation with Deidre Sanders Monday 26 January, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm A Q&A session with ‘This Morning’ agony aunt Deidre Sanders regarding mediation and separation. Register here
- Practical tips to manage turbulent emotions in separation or divorce Tuesday 27 January, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm A webinar designed to help you understand and manage the emotional impact of the divorce process. Register here
- A beginner’s guide to how mediation can help you in separation or divorce: part 1 children Wednesday 28 January, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm An exploration of how mediation works as a practical, cost-effective way to manage arrangements for children. Register here
- 3 must-read books for parents navigating separation Thursday 29 January, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Interviews with authors about books that help parents manage separation arrangements and post-separation issues. Register here
- A beginner’s guide to how mediation can help you in separation or divorce: part 2 finance Friday 30 January, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm The second part of the beginner’s guide, focusing on how mediation helps resolve financial issues. Register here
Whether you are currently navigating a separation or you are a professional supporting those who are, we encourage you to explore the wealth of resources available during this week. Choosing mediation is about more than just avoiding court; it is about choosing a path of respect, clarity, and compassion for everyone involved.
To find out more about the national programme of events or to access helpful resources, visit the Family Mediation Council website at https://www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/fmw/. If you would like to discuss how we can support you locally in Saffron Walden, please do get in touch with our team.
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