As part of the mediation process, the mediator may offer to see your child to give them the opportunity to talk to someone independent. This is what we call Direct Consultation with Children or Child Inclusive Mediation.

When parents are disagreeing about how to share their parenting, the voice of the child is sometimes not heard very clearly, as the adults are preoccupied. This is an independent way of getting the voice of the child into the room. The child should not feel they need to take sides, especially if there is a difference of opinion between the parents.

The mediator will not be asking the child to make decisions about what they want or who they may wish to live with. This is for the parents to decide. However, it does give the child the opportunity to voice any worries, views or thoughts they might have on arrangements or future plans.

The mediator will only see the child with the permission of both parents. If the child does not wish to see the mediator, they can say no. Both parents will be made aware of when the appointment is. The mediator will have talked to both parents about ways to prepare the child for this meeting.

For more information view the Mediation FAQs