What is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps individuals in conflict reach a mutually acceptable agreement. It is a collaborative approach that encourages open communication and problem-solving, allowing parties to explore solutions tailored to their unique needs.
In the context of divorce, mediation provides a safe and supportive environment for couples to discuss and resolve issues such as child arrangements, financial plans, and property division. Unlike court proceedings, mediation is confidential and gives parties control over their outcome, often resulting in more sustainable agreements and better relationships post-divorce.
For More Information About Family Mediation and Divorce Coaching:
At EB & Co. Mediation, we offer comprehensive family mediation services and divorce coaching to guide you through the challenges of separation. Our experienced mediators help you identify goals, communicate effectively, and find practical solutions tailored to your situation.
Mediation Services:
- Child Arrangements: Create a parenting plan that prioritises the well-being of your children.
- Financial Arrangements: Discuss financial settlements and asset sharing with clarity and fairness.
- Property Division: Navigate the complexities of dividing marital assets.
Divorce Coaching:
- Emotional Support: Receive guidance on managing the emotional aspects of divorce.
- Goal Setting: Develop clear, achievable goals for your life post-divorce.
- Communication Skills: Learn effective communication techniques to help negotiate and resolve conflicts.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at EB & Co. Mediation. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a positive outcome during this challenging time.
EB & Co. Mediation Case Studies
Mr & Mrs W.
Mr & Mrs W have been married for 21 years and have two older children, one child is away at University and the other in her last year at school. Mr & Mrs W know that they have been growing apart and that their marriages has come to an end. Now that their children are older and more independent they felt it was the right time to move to a different, separate future. Mr & Mrs W agreed that their priority in mediation was to sort out their finances. They did not want or need to make child arrangements.
EB&Co carefully and clearly explained the steps that Mr and Mrs W would have to take in their financial disclosure process. We explained what financial information would need to be provided and when. Then using this information as a framework and in the managed environment of a mediation session encouraged Mr and Mrs W to plan what they would need as they move towards their new futures. We tested their agreements by asking them to consider alternative options and by raising possible alternative scenarios.
By guiding our clients through their financial plans we actively encourage them to consider their children’s needs as well as their own individual needs but what is fair and affordable to all those involved.
Mr & Mrs B.
Mr and Mrs B have been married for 15 years and have two children (aged 12yrs and 14yrs). They are committed to keeping their relationship as amicable as possible for the sake of their children. They came to mediation having agreed equal shared care of the children and with a verbal agreement to keep the family home so there was as little disruption to the children as possible.
With guidance from EB&Co Mr and Mrs B provided all their financial information prior to their first session and came hoping to reach an agreement. During the session, as EB&Co questioned Mr and Mrs B more closely on their plans, it became clear that in fact Mrs B wanted to sell the family home despite the disruption to the children. Mr B was adamant that he did not want to sell the house.
EB & Co. suggested that it might be helpful for Mr and Mrs B to have an understanding of what their children thought about the changes in their family life. A child inclusive mediation session was arranged. A carefully managed conversation between the children and the specialist mediator, who then reported back what the children had to say, allowed Mr and Mrs B to have a better appreciation of what was actually important to the children. Having heard what the children said Mr and Mrs B were able to move towards an agreement about the family home.
The ‘voice of the child’ is heard in mediation using Child Inclusive Mediation. EB&Co offer the opportunity for children (over the age of 10yrs) to talk to a specially trained mediator about what is really important to them.
Mr & Mrs C.
Mr and Mrs C have been married for 9 years, they have three young children (8yrs, 6yrs and 3yrs). Mrs C has given up work to look after the children full-time and feels that Mr C does not give enough time to the children. Mr C works long hours. Communication between them is not easy and Mr C recently moved out of the family home into a rented property. They have a verbal agreement about the children but are finding it hard to make this work. They have not discussed their finances at all.
EB&Co explained to Mr and Mrs C that they can choose to discuss any of the issues raised by the end of their relationship in whatever order is most important to them. Mr and Mrs C agreed that the children were their priority and wanted to work towards an arrangement for them before discussing their finances.
EB&Co started the discussion by asking Mr C about his recent move out of the family home. In the safe, neutral environment of mediation Mr C felt able to express how much he missed the children, equally Mrs C then explained how unsupported she felt coping with the demands of three young children.
EB&Co enabled Mr and Mrs C to listen to each other and in doing so acknowledge the common ground between them as loving parents. The understanding that EB&Co were able to create allowed Mr & Mrs C conversation to move forwards towards a workable solution.
This type of conversation is far from easy for clients and must be managed with both empathy and an eye to the future. EB&Co understands the cycle of hurt feelings and angry thoughts that can lead to poor decisions or choices. By understanding this cycle we allow clients to find their common ground and work towards their own solutions.
Non-married couple
Bob and Ann had been in a relationship for 14 years, and had 4 children, ages 11, 9, 7 and 3yrs old, though they never married. They had shared a family home for 10 years, however Bob moved out 3 years ago to move in with his new partner.
Ann has a debilitating illness that impacts her ability to work, and as she has been predominantly the primary carer in the home to look after the children, she has very little borrowing potential. Bob is paying child maintenance to Ann, and they both contribute 50/50 for the monthly mortgage repayments.
Bob is struggling to maintain the child maintenance amount as well as 50% of the mortgage, and is sinking further and further into debt. Ann’s illness is making looking after the children much more difficult, and Bob does have them as much as possible, however he lives in a 2-bed cottage, with his partner and her son, therefore the space is very limited. Adding 4 more bodies makes things very cosy, but obviously not suitable long term.
Bob would like to sell the house to release the equity so that he can buy a bigger house. If they sold the house however, Ann would not be able to purchase a replacement and would be forced to rent. With some cash in her bank, her benefits would cease, and her equity would be swallowed by paying rent.
EB & Co. Mediation
Client Testimonials
Our Process
How we work
Step 1
MIAM – Mediation Information Assessment Meeting
Your individual chance to meet the mediator, learn about the process, and understand your next steps.
Step 2
Preparing for Mediation
Thinking about what you want to achieve from the session(s): perhaps developing a parenting plan together or beginning to sort out your finances
Step 3
Getting extra support
Do you need more information or may be legal advice? We will clearly explain the different choices and options every step of the way.
Step 4
Developing plans for the future
With the support and help of your mediator you will begin to understand and develop, practical, real-life plans as you move towards your new seprate lives.
Step 5
Agreement
You understand why you have made the decisions you have, you know that these are the right choices for you and your family. You feel ready to move forward.
Our News
EB & Co. Mediation
Divorce and Mediation in Same-Sex Marriages or Civil Partnerships
Ending a same-sex marriage or civil partnership can be a challenging and emotional process, but it doesn’t have to be adversarial. With the right support, separating couples can navigate this transition constructively and respectfully. At EB & Co. Mediation, we...
Divorce Day: A Fresh Start or a Misleading Label?
The first working Monday of the year has been dubbed "Divorce Day" - the earliest opportunity of the year for anyone considering divorce to take the initial step toward legally separating from their partner – a term that has gained traction in recent years. For...
The Role of Mediation in Resolving Family Disputes: A 2024 Update
As families navigate the complexities of separation and divorce, the court system increasingly recognises mediation as a powerful tool to resolve disputes amicably and constructively. The updated 2024 Guide to Family Mediation for the Courts, created by the Family...
Pensions, Mediation, and Divorce: Navigating the Financial Maze Together
When a relationship ends, dividing assets can be one of the most challenging aspects of separation. Among the most complex and significant financial matters to address are pensions. Often overlooked, pensions can represent one of the largest financial assets within a...
Changes to Family Procedure Rules 2024: The Importance of Mediation Before Going to Court
The landscape of family law changed with the introduction of updates and changes to Family Procedure Rules on the 29th April 2024. These changes place a stronger emphasis on resolving family disputes outside of the courtroom, such as through mediation. One of the...
Understanding benefits of the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme in the UK
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme in the UK is a government initiative designed to ease the financial burden of family mediation for separating couples, making it a more accessible and affordable option. Since its launch, the scheme has helped many families navigate...
Separation, Mediation, and Pet Custody: Navigating the Best Outcome for Your Furry Family Members
Separation and divorce are challenging enough without adding the emotional turmoil of deciding who keeps the family pet. Pets are often considered part of the family, and when a relationship breaks down, their well-being becomes a significant concern alongside pet...
The Difference Between Accredited Family Mediators and Divorce Coaching: Why Mediation is the Better Path Forward
Navigating the waters of separation and divorce can feel overwhelming and emotionally draining. You’re faced with a maze of decisions, legal jargon, and the complex task of reorganising your life. In this journey, many people turn to professionals for support, and two...
Moving to Our New Offices in Saffron Walden!
EB & Co. Mediation have moved to Rowe House in the centre of Saffron Walden We are excited to announce that EB & Co. Mediation moved to new offices in Saffron Walden in June, 2024. You can find us at Suites 12-13, Rowe House, Emson Close, Saffron Walden, CB10...
Parental Responsibility: Understanding Your Rights in England and Wales
A Guide to Navigating Parental Rights and Responsibilities Understanding parental rights and parental responsibility is essential for every parent or legal guardian in England and Wales. The legal concept of parental responsibility encompasses a variety of rights and...
Co-Parenting Tips for Parents Going Through Mediation and Divorce
Navigating the Transition from Partners to Co-Parents Keeping Your Children’s Best Interests at Heart Co-Parenting Tips as divorce can be a challenging time, especially when children are involved. As parents transition from partners to co-parents, finding ways to...
Choosing Mediation or a Solicitor for Divorce: Why Collaboration Matters
Exploring the Benefits of Mediation and Legal Representation in Divorce Proceedings When faced with the prospect of divorce, many couples wonder whether they should be choosing mediation or engage solicitors to handle the process. While both approaches have their...
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