If you’re separating and need to sort out finances, property or pensions, it can feel overwhelming. Many people assume the process will be long, complicated or confrontational. The reality is very different. Financial mediation is a structured, supportive process that usually takes just 3–4 sessions and helps you reach practical, workable agreements together—without the stress of court. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how property and finance mediation works, st

Separation can bring a lot of uncertainty, especially when it comes to making arrangements for children, finances, or property. Many people consider family mediation as a way to move forward constructively, but starting that conversation with an ex partner can feel daunting. This article explores how that conversation often arises, what family mediation involves, and how it can be introduced in a calm and constructive way. What Is Family Mediation Family mediation is a struct

When parents separate, many things change—routines, communication, and family life more generally. One area that often becomes more noticeable is differences in parenting styles. What may previously have felt manageable can, over time, begin to feel more significant. This is something many separated parents experience, particularly in the early stages of parenting after separation. If you are finding this challenging, you are not alone—and there are supportive, constructive w

At Pax Mediation, we recognise that  no two neurodivergent people are the same . Neurodiversity includes a wide range of experiences — such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, sensory processing differences, and other ways of thinking and processing information. But labels only tell part of the story. Every person brings their own strengths, preferences, communication style, and needs. Rather than making assumptions, we take the same approach we use in mediation itself:  we

Why Communication Breaks Down in Families Family communication often becomes strained during periods of change or stress. Common reasons include: The expression of strong emotions that can make it difficult for other family members to listen calmly. Assumptions about what others in the family are thinking or feeling. A tendency to avoid difficult conversations to try to keep the peace. Power imbalances between adults in the family or between parents and children. External pre

When parents separate, discussions about shared care, time with children , and  child maintenance  are often some of the most emotionally charged and complex issues to navigate. Many parents arrive at mediation with strong views about what feels fair, what they believe reflects their involvement, and what they hope arrangements will look like going forward. These conversations are not unusual — and they often reflect deeper concerns about parenting identity, financial pressu

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have become a normal part of daily life. From writing emails to organising finances, AI can offer quick and convenient support. Increasingly, people navigating separation or divorce are also turning to AI — to draft messages, organise thoughts, or research what the law says. At Pax Mediation, we recognise that AI can be a helpful tool, but also a risky one, particularly during emotionally charged disputes. Used thoughtfully, AI can support

Joe Swash’s recent BBC documentary focusing on young dads shines a powerful light on a group whose experiences are often overlooked. The programme follows young fathers navigating parenthood, relationships, and co-parenting — frequently against a backdrop of conflict, misunderstanding, and limited support. What stands out throughout the documentary is that many of the challenges these young dads face is not about a lack of love or commitment to their children. Instead, they

When people are separating or considering family mediation, they may come across different terms, titles, and accreditations. One of the most common is  FMCA accreditation , which stands for  Family Mediation Council Accredited . This blog provides general information about what FMCA accreditation means, why professional standards matter in family mediation, and how this accreditation fits within the wider mediation framework in England and Wales. This blog is for general inf

Separation can be an emotionally demanding time, often involving difficult conversations and uncertainty about the future. One of the most significant and sensitive issues many separating couples face is  what happens to the family home . For some, the home represents financial security. For others, it carries emotional meaning, stability, and continuity — particularly where children are involved. This article provides  general information about common options  relating to th