Separating is a stressful and worrying time for both parents and children. It is important that parents work out the best arrangements as quickly and amicably as possible so that the children are settled and everybody knows what is happening.

As parents you will know what would work for your child better than anybody else. However when separating, communication between parents is hard and other emotional issues often cloud conversation and judgment.

A mediator will be impartial, they will help you to communicate and structure your discussions, give you information and make suggestions.

We are qualified to speak to your children directly providing you both feel this would be beneficial. The mediator can chat with your child about his or her thoughts and feelings. This allows the child to provide thoughts about family life to a neutral person. This can be particularly helpful if a child is saying different things to each parent. Nicolette Zarka has enhanced DBS clearance to speak to children in mediation.

The mediator would advise the parents of the child’s feelings and both parents would use information to find the best solution for everyone.

We ask that if you come to mediation, you are committed to listening to what each other thinks would work, and that you recognise that mediation isn’t necessarily going to be easy.

Aurora mediators are members of the family mediation voucher scheme which means that £500 could be available towards the cost of the full mediation. This is not means tested.

www.gov.uk/guidance/family-mediation-voucher-scheme