As the festive season draws to a close and children across the country return to school, January sometimes feels like a natural time for reflection and reorganisation. For separated parents, this seasonal shift can present an important opportunity to review existing child arrangements, address any challenges that may have arisen the previous year, and ensure that the year ahead runs as smoothly as possible for everyone, particularly the children.
That’s why January is an ideal time to revisit your current arrangements and, if necessary, make adjustments that reflect your family’s current circumstances. Family mediation provides a supportive, constructive environment in which these conversations can take place.
Why January?
For many families, the new school year in September is a hectic time, with lots of school and work commitments as the nights draw in. New school timetables, extracurricular commitments, and changes in work patterns can all affect the practicalities of child arrangements. January offers a chance to reflect on the long Winter term, moving into the new year and Spring term with more focus.
Small changes such as these can have a significant ripple effect on the logistics of co-parenting. If existing arrangements no longer align with your family’s needs, the beginning of the calendar year offers a clear point at which to assess and revise them. Taking a proactive approach can help to prevent misunderstandings and reduce conflict later down the line.
The Role of Mediation
Family mediation offers a safe, neutral space for separated parents to discuss any concerns or changes they would like to make. It is especially valuable for helping parents focus on their children’s needs and work collaboratively to agree on practical solutions.
Through mediation, many parents find they are able to communicate more effectively, rebuild trust, and make shared decisions in the best interests of their children. Whether you’re reviewing long-standing arrangements or navigating more recent changes, mediation can help you reach a sustainable agreement without the need for court proceedings.
One of the key outcomes of mediation is the creation of a Parenting Plan, a written agreement that sets out how you will share the care of your children. This may include details about living arrangements, school holidays, special occasions, communication, and any other aspects of parenting that are important to you both.
Parenting Plans are not legally binding, but they can offer a valuable framework that provides clarity and consistency for all involved. They are particularly useful as children grow and family dynamics evolve over time.
Support Available: Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
To support families in resolving issues around children without going to court, the Government has extended the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme. This initiative offers a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of mediation for eligible cases involving child arrangements.
The scheme significantly reduce the cost of resolving disputes through mediation. At Vollans Mediation, we are registered to offer this scheme and can advise you on whether your case may qualify. We’ve seen first-hand how this support can make mediation more accessible to families during what is often an emotionally and financially challenging time.
Legal Aid for Family Mediation
In addition to the voucher scheme, it’s important to know that Legal Aid remains available for family mediation. If you’re eligible, Legal Aid covers the cost of the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), as well as subsequent mediation sessions. It also covers the cost of a Parenting Plan and even provides a free MIAM for the other parent, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Legal Aid is means-tested, and our team can help you check whether you might qualify. Many clients are surprised to discover that they are eligible, especially those on lower incomes or receiving certain benefits.
A Collaborative Start to the Year
Taking the time in January to reflect on what is working, and what could be improved, can make a real difference to family life. It allows for calm, considered discussions rather than reactive decisions made under pressure. And when those conversations happen through mediation, the focus remains firmly on the wellbeing of the children and the importance of positive co-parenting.
If you feel that your child arrangements could benefit from review, or if you are encountering difficulties in reaching agreement with the other parent, Vollans Mediation is here to help. Our experienced, accredited mediators can guide you through the process with empathy, professionalism, and a focus on what matters most: your children’s happiness and stability. Please see our Contact page to get in touch.