Mediation Department

We have a team of specially trained Mediators who are experienced in all matters regarding Mediation for Parenting Agreements.

Our Mediation team appreciate the breakdown of a relationship is a difficult and distressing time for all concerned, and because of this, you will receive expert impartial support from our trained mediators.

When going through separation, sometimes the hardest part is how to discuss and negotiate the most suitable arrangements which meet the needs of your children. Often both parents will want to establish a way to see their children on a regular basis, and when parents work together, this can be possible.

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 Mediation for Parenting Agreements?

Mediation to establish Parenting Agreements, is a process, whereby a professionally trained Mediator is able independently and impartially to facilitate clear communication between parties, allowing yourself and your ex, to explore options relating to your children. This provides an opportunity for parents establish mutually acceptable arrangements on various issues, such as:

• Child Arrangements pre school
• Term time arrangements and routine
• School holidays and cover for working parents
• Special days ( Birthdays, Mother’s and Father’s day etc.)
• Christmas festive arrangements
• Educational arrangements and communications with school and extra curricular events
• Medical routine and non routine protocol
• Financial support CMS and additional activities
• Parental consultation as opposed to parental sharing of information
• Retaining communication with extended relatives
• Parental communications and boundaries
• Expectation of parents over parenting
• Partners
• Areas of specific concern /risk.

Mediation is a voluntary and preferred process option of the Courts.  It is designed to enable parents to continue making decisions for their children in a cooperative manner. Parents cannot be forced into an arrangement. Parents remain in control of their family outcome.  
A Mediator will manage, support and help inform parents make decisions for the benefit of their child/ren. Our specially trained Mediators provide a  safe environment  for parents to hear and to be heard ,to discuss and explore options, to establish arrangements, which work for each individual   family.  Arrangements made in a mediation process may be set out in a Memorandum of Understanding incorporating the proposed parenting plans.

How does it work?

The great thing about the process of Mediation for parenting arrangements, is that it can be tailored to suit your needs, availability and preference. There are numerous ways in which a Mediation session can take place, such as:

• Face-to-face meetings: In face-to-face meetings,  both parties are present in the same Mediation room with a trained  Mediator. The role of the Mediator in this instance is to impartially  manage your process, and help you come to an agreement that suits  everyone.
• Shuttle Meetings: We understand that sometimes  some parties are willing to take part in mediation, however, they would  prefer to go through this process separately. During Shuttle Meetings  individual parties will have their own separate and private room. In  this case the Mediator will move between each room and update each party  on the views and proposals made by the other.
• Remote Meetings: There are occasions whereby it is  difficult to be in the same place at the same time, and due to the  Coronavirus outbreak, carrying out remote Mediation sessions has allowed  for us to continue assisting those who require them. In the appropriate  circumstances remote mediation sessions may be suitable and offered to  parties via the use of Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp video calling. Remote  meetings can either be ‘face to face’ or ‘shuttle’.

What are the benefits of Mediation?
The Mediation process is a beneficial way of exploring different options in order to work out which will be the best option for you, your partner and children.
Mediation sessions take place in a confidential and non-judgemental environment to ensure families feel safe to discuss their problems and anxieties freely, allowing them to make arrangements for the future.
The sessions allow for both parties to come to an amicable agreement regarding, parenting and financial arrangements and their children.  
Mediation can be Free for those who are eligible.

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