Family mediation is a proven and effective way to resolve the difficult issues that arise when a relationship ends. It is a voluntary process and entirely confidential.

When families separate, complex and important decisions must be made - often at a time of high emotion and uncertainty. Mediation provides a safe, confidential and professional space where you can talk openly, be heard, and work through matters relating to finances, property, and arrangements for your children.

Mediation works alongside the family justice system and is widely recognised as the preferred way to resolve disputes following separation or divorce. At a time when the cost of living is rising and the Family Courts are under significant pressure, mediation offers a constructive, proportionate alternative to a lengthy and costly court process.

Where appropriate, family mediation can also give children aged 10 and over the opportunity to share their views and have a voice in decisions that affect them. Many parents find this invaluable in helping them make thoughtful, child-focused arrangements for the future. We bring in specialised senior mediatiors to assist with this.

Mediators remain impartial at all times. We do not take sides or advise you what decisions to make in the way that a solicitor might. Instead, we support calm, balanced discussions and guide you through the available options, so that you can reach agreements that feel fair and workable for everyone involved. Mediators aren't trying to get to an outcome themselves, instead they're trying to assist parties in getting to an outcome that might work for you both.

Mediation does not necessitate sharing a room, or even a screen - 'shuttle' mediation allows a mediator to gather the points of respective parties without them sharing a physical space.

Even in complex or highly conflicted situations, mediation can help create lasting agreements and reduce ongoing conflict - allowing you to move forward with greater clarity, stability and peace of mind.

Couples usually require between four and six sessions to reach agreements, though this can obviously vary depending on the complexity of the issues involved. Any arrangements made can be visited in the future if necessary.

Cooper Griffin Mediation is a new mediation service formed by Sarah Changizi-Cooper and Bill Griffin, two trained mediators working towards accreditation. Our goal is to maximise empathy and efficiency, carefully balancing the practical issues with the emotional.