A mediation expert has called on separated and divorced parents to start making parenting arrangements for the school summer holidays sooner, rather than later.
Lucy Adams, Senior Family Associate and Mediator at Knights, says mediation could be the way forward for parents looking to avoid a heaving court system:
“A change of parenting routines in the long school summer holidays is inevitable and arrangements that work well in term-time can often prove inadequate in the summer.
“Separated parents who can’t agree between themselves what will work best for the children during the long break often come to us asking for help to make a plan in the mediation process.
“Mediation is a bespoke service, which offers disputing families a way of resolving their issues in the most amicable way possible – all whilst avoiding an application to the family courts.
“It’s important to try and find agreements more amicably, outside of court, as we are finding that they’re currently inundated with cases and might not have the capacity to pick-up these cases last-minute.
“Thinking ahead gives families time to shape the best arrangements for their child. Our advice is for parents not to leave any decision making until the last minute.
“The time children will spend with each parent during the summer break can be tricky to agree and stress levels can rise as the holiday approaches.
“It’s not just about who will look after the children day-to-day. Parents may also need to consider special arrangements when taking the children abroad for a summer break.
“Added complications could also include how any breaks will be funded, whether there’s a new partner to consider or how much of a role grandparents play.
“Making the arrangements in good time will give certainty to both parents, bringing families peace of mind whilst ensuring the children know what is coming in the weeks ahead.”
Knights’ mediators are registered on the Family Mediation Council (FMC) Register, which means they meet agreed professional standards. Mediation allows the parties to stay in control, as no one will be made to do or agree to anything against their wishes. Unlike in a courtroom, both partners can agree to a solution rather than have a judge decide for them.
For support with parenting arrangements, mediation or other family law matters, contact our Family team to discuss how they can help.