Mediation Department

We have a specialist team who are experienced and qualified to undertake Child Inclusive Mediation.

Our team appreciate that the breakdown of a relationship is a difficult and distressing time for all concerned, especially children.

When going through divorce or separation, it can be hard to find suitable arrangements for your children. Child Inclusive Mediation can assist parents to work together and take on board their children’s views.

Free initial information

Our Mediation services are provided through ‘Midlands Dove Mediation’, who are a part of our organisation, offering specialist mediation services. Our specialist, independent and impartial Solicitor Mediators, are here to take the worry off your hands.

Our experienced Mediation team provide free initial information in relation to each type of Mediation process and how this could assist in your current circumstances. Please call our administration hub on 01623706020 or your preferred office below or email enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk or visit their specific website www.midlandsdove.co.uk 

• Chesterfield: 01246 386322
• Derby: 01332 973800
• Mansfield: 01623 706020
• Nottingham: 0115 8384777

What is Child Inclusive Mediation?

Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM) used to be known as Direct Child Consultation (DCC) and is often referred to as “The Voice of the Child”.

CIM, can take place if  parents  (those with Parental Responsibility), the Mediator and Children agree to one of our specially trained Child Inclusive Mediators,  talking with a child, or children, as part of a Mediation process dealing with the arrangements  for the care and support of those  child/children involved in the process.

The Government suggests, in appropriate circumstances children may be consulted about the arrangements which are being made for their care. There is an expectation that children aged 10 and above should have a say in the arrangements and access to a Mediator when decisions about their future are being discussed and proposed during Mediation.

How does Child Inclusive Mediation work?

Child Inclusive Mediators have to undergo additional and specialist training and have experience before this service can be offered.  It is important to ensure that any children feel they are in a safe environment and are willingly participating, in the knowledge that what they say is confidential, unless they agree for it to be shared or an exception applies.

During a CIM session children can either be seen on their own or with siblings to discuss how they feel about a situation.
The process of CIM provides an opportunity for children and young people to think about and discuss their needs freely in a trustworthy environment. It allows for children to have their voices heard without the fear of upsetting either of their parents. The idea of CIM is so that children feel as though their views are respected and listened to, so that they do not feel isolated during their parent’s separation or divorce.

Why is Child Inclusive Mediation important?

Separation or divorce is a difficult and distressing time for everyone involved, especially children. It can often leave them feeling bewildered or that their opinions do not matter when it comes to child arrangements.

The CIM process reassures children that their parents respect their views and opinions and are taking them into consideration when making arrangements. The sessions allow for children to speak freely knowing that only expressly permitted information will be given to their parents/carers.

How do I know if Child Inclusive Mediation is appropriate for me?

It is not always appropriate to involve children within Mediation. To understand whether this would be appropriate for your situation, Mediators would discuss with both parents/ carers, the CIM process, clarifying why they are seeking CIM and what they are hoping to understand from their child/ children. This will occur prior to CIM taking place and will include the Mediator, explaining the benefits and any potential drawbacks, which may arise as a result, of a CIM.

How we can help

Our experienced team of Mediators are able to provide impartial support, assistance and information, during what may be a difficult and distressing time.

Our specialist team members all have experience of helping people at difficult times in their lives and we are committed to delivering to you a professional and confidential service.

Location is not an issue

Our Mediators are able to provide expert services across the country. For us, geographical location is not an obstacle, we have a network of offices based in: Chesterfield, Nottingham, Mansfield and Derby.

Our Mediators also provide remote mediation sessions, subject to and in accordance with the requirements of the Family Mediation Council and Legal Aid Agency able to offer their services using remote video appointments, using ZOOM, Facetime or Skype.

How to make contact

Our team are on hand to help you and can assist wherever you are based.
Please call us for a no-obligation, free initial discussion or email enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk and we will call or email you back.

• Chesterfield: 01246 386322
• Derby: 01332 973800
• Mansfield: 01623 706020
• Nottingham: 0115 8384777