National Family Mediation Services Bristol

Family mediation is a process that helps families resolve disputes through facilitated discussions that are designed to reach a mutually acceptable outcome. The mediator—a neutral third party—assists family members in identifying and discussing their concerns and needs. The mediator does not take sides or make any decisions. Instead, the focus remains on creating a collaborative and constructive dialogue that leads to a resolution.

The actual mediation process starts with a joint meeting where the parties, along with the mediator, discuss their respective positions and identify any areas of agreement or disagreement. The mediator encourages the parties to actively listen to the other party’s perspective, and to avoid interrupting or criticizing. After the initial meeting, the mediator meets with each party separately to help identify private concerns and goals. 

Confidentiality remains a key component throughout the process with National Family Mediation Service Bristol. Once the mediator has collected enough information from both parties, a negotiation session may occur, which aims to reach an agreement between all parties. This process may repeat itself over a few mediation sessions.