Family Mediation Week 2026 Support for Families at a Time of Change
Family Mediation Week takes place from 26 January and is a national awareness week designed to help families understand how mediation can support them through separation, divorce and family change.
If you are facing difficult conversations about children, finances or the future of your family, mediation offers a calm, respectful and structured way forward. It focuses on communication, understanding and practical outcomes, without the stress, cost and conflict often associated with court proceedings.
At Annie Ives Family Mediation, we support individuals and families both locally in Abergavenny and across the UK, helping people make informed decisions during some of the most emotionally challenging moments of their lives.
What is Family Mediation Week
Family Mediation Week is an annual initiative led by the Family Mediation Council. Its aim is to highlight the benefits of mediation and encourage separating families to seek support early, before conflict becomes entrenched.
During this week, many people begin searching for information about alternatives to solicitors and court. Mediation is often faster, more affordable and far less adversarial, while keeping the focus firmly on the wellbeing of children and the long term stability of family relationships.
How Family Mediation Can Help
Family mediation provides a safe and neutral space for discussion. With the support of a trained mediator, you can explore solutions around:
Arrangements for children including living arrangements, routines and holidays
Communication between parents following separation
Financial matters such as property, savings and future planning
Reducing conflict and helping children feel secure and heard
Mediation is not about taking sides or assigning blame. It is about helping people move forward with clarity and dignity.
Direct Consultation With Children
Where appropriate, children can be given the opportunity to have their voice heard through direct consultation.
This allows children to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe, age appropriate way, without feeling caught in the middle.
Many parents find this aspect of mediation reassuring, as it helps ensure decisions are made with the child’s emotional needs firmly in mind
Why Choose Mediation Instead of Court
Court proceedings can be lengthy, expensive and emotionally draining. Mediation offers a more constructive alternative.
Benefits of mediation include:
Greater control over outcomes
A more respectful process
Reduced stress for children
Faster resolutions
Lower overall cost
For many families, mediation also helps preserve a workable relationship between parents, which is particularly important when children are involved.
Local Support in Abergavenny and Nationally Across the UK
Annie Ives Family Mediation is based in Abergavenny and works with families across Monmouthshire and South Wales. We also support clients throughout the UK via online mediation, making professional help accessible wherever you are.
Whether you are at the very beginning of separation or already experiencing conflict, mediation can help you take the next step with confidence.
Family Mediation Week A Time to Take the First Step
Family Mediation Week is often the moment people realise they do not have to face these challenges alone. Seeking information is not a commitment, but it can be the start of a calmer and more positive path forward.
If you are considering mediation, or simply want to understand your options, now is a good time to explore what support is available.
If you would like to learn more about family mediation or book an initial Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, Annie Ives is here to help.
Get in touch to discuss your situation in confidence and find out whether mediation is right for you.
Talk to Annie Ives today about Family Mediation Services/