National Family Mediation

26/08/2026

🐾 It’s National Dog Day! 🐾

For many of us, a dog isn’t “just a pet”,they’re very much part of the family.

So when a relationship ends, deciding what happens to a much-loved dog can be one of the most emotional things to work through.

There can be lots to consider. Who has the time and space to care for them? How will vet bills and other costs be managed? Could sharing care work, or would one home be better for the dog?

Although the law treats dogs as property, family mediation can give separating couples the opportunity to talk through the practical and emotional issues and try to reach an agreement that works for everyone - including their four-legged family member. 🐶

We’ve put together some practical things to think about if you’re trying to decide who gets the dog after separation or divorce.

👉 https://www.nfm.org.uk/divorce-who-gets-the-dog/

21/08/2026

📚✏️ Not long until it's back to school and when you’re co-parenting a little planning can make a big difference.

The start of a new school year can bring a mix of excitement, nerves and lots of things to organise, from uniforms, school pick-ups, homework and clubs.

For separated parents, agreeing some of the practical details in advance of the return can help reduce misunderstandings and make the transition feel calmer for everyone, but especially your children.

Our Back to School Co-Parenting Advice & Checklist includes practical tips to help you:

✅ share responsibilities
✅ plan for school costs
✅ keep on top of important dates and information
✅ support your child as they settle back into school

Take a look and work through the checklist together if you can 👉 https://www.nfm.org.uk/back-to-school-co-parenting-advice-and-checklist/

06/08/2026

Children deserve the opportunity for their voices to be heard when their family is going through separation.

Child-Inclusive Mediation gives children and young people a safe, private space to talk with a specially trained mediator about their experiences, worries and hopes.

They are never asked to:

• choose between their parents
• make decisions about arrangements
• take responsibility for the outcome

They decide what, if anything, they would like the mediator to share with their parents or carers.

NFM offers Child-Inclusive Mediation to our mediation clients free of charge.

Talk to your mediator or visit the link below to learn more.

https://www.nfm.org.uk/nfm-direct/child-inclusive-mediation/

04/08/2026

Family mediation can feel like a big step, particularly when communication is difficult or emotions are running high. Our mediators provide a calm, respectful and balanced space where you can talk through your situation and consider the way forward.

Thank you to this client for sharing their experience.

01/08/2026

Divorce or separation can be costly, emotionally, as well as financially.

Family mediation can help you work through arrangements for children, finances and property without relying on lengthy solicitor negotiations or court proceedings. It can save time, reduce costs and help both people retain more control over the decisions that affect their family.

Read our guide to how mediation could make separation more manageable:
https://www.nfm.org.uk/how-family-mediation-can-help-save-money-on-divorce/

21/06/2026

💙 Happy Father’s Day 💙

Today, we’re thinking of all the fathers showing up in their own way - whether they’re in the same home or parenting from afar. And the grandads, stepdads, foster dads, father figures - and those missing a dad today 💛

12/06/2026

High-conflict cases can be some of the most challenging situations family mediators face.

When emotions are running high, recognising the signs of escalation and responding effectively can make a significant difference to the mediation process.

Join us for this interactive training session, where we'll explore:

✔️ How to identify high-conflict personalities and behaviours
✔️ Recognising when conflict is likely to escalate
✔️ Supporting parties to move towards workable proposals

There will also be opportunities to discuss real-life practice issues, share ideas with colleagues and ask questions.

📅 Wednesday 15 July 2026
⏰ 10.00am – 12.00pm

Whether you're new to mediation or looking to build confidence in managing more challenging cases, this session will provide practical insights you can take straight into your practice.

Book your place today ⬇️

https://www.nfm.org.uk/events/cpd-webinar-high-conflict-mediation/

02/06/2026

Separating doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Family mediation can help you resolve issues around children and finances while saving time, money and stress.

Find out more 👇

22/05/2026

With Father’s Day fast approaching, many separated dads may be feeling anxious, emotional or uncertain about what the day will look like this year.

For some, it may be the first Father’s Day after separation. For others, changed routines, co-parenting arrangements or time apart from children can make the day particularly difficult.💔

If you’re navigating Father’s Day after divorce or separation, we have shared some practical advice on how to manage this day and how to create thoughtful and workable arrangements.

Read it below : 👇

https://www.nfm.org.uk/how-to-manage-fathers-day-when-you-are-divorced-or-separated/

11/05/2026

We were pleased to hear one of our mediators featured on BBC World Service’s The Conversation: Resolving Conflict in Relationships, discussing family mediation and the impact separation can have on families.

These conversations matter as they help more people understand that there are supportive, child-focused ways to navigate conflict and separation.

Thank you to BBC World Service and presenter Ella Al-Shamahi for shining a light on this important topic.

🎧 Listen here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct99nc

Family mediators on finding calm and co-operation in conflict and putting children first