Family mediators are calling for more practical information and support for divorcing and separating couples after a recent survey by the Family Mediators Association revealed that couples are struggling to access the information they need to help them make informed decisions about their family and financial issues, with up to 38% of people unaware that there are more ways to resolve these issues than going to court or using a solicitor.

The poll, conducted by YouGov in support of Family Mediation Week, revealed that people’s satisfaction with the resolution of their issues is related to their access to information about their options – survey participants who were happiest with the outcome of their separation were those with the best access to information about the options available to them. Nationally, 49% of respondents reported that they felt positive about the outcome of their separation; this rose in areas where participants had the best access to information, but fell in parts of the UK where participants were unaware there were other options available. Nationwide, 15% of people were unaware that there were methods of resolution other than lawyers or court available, which rose to an astonishing 38% among younger respondents.

Additionally, the survey revealed that almost a quarter of separating or divorcing couples pick a method for resolving their issues because it was the cheapest option available to them, but that few couples are aware how the costs of different resolution methods actually compare. Figures from the Ministry of Justice show that mediation tends to be far less expensive than many of its alternatives, but only 2% of respondents reported that they used a family mediation service compared to a total of 35% negotiating through court or solicitors, showing that couples aren’t always aware there is a cheaper alternative.  In light of these results, family mediators are calling for increased availability of practical information and support for separating couples trying to decide how to divide their assets or organise time with their children.

Beverley Sayers, chair of the Family Mediators Association, says: “This research reinforces what many of us in the mediation profession are experiencing on a daily basis. People simply aren’t aware of the options available to them when they separate or divorce, but – as the research findings show – people who make informed decisions based on information and knowledge are generally happier with the outcome of their separation. For more information, please visit:  Family Mediation Week  The Family Mediators Association  Ministry of Justice

Annis Cordy or Karen Tinkler at The Partners Group  Tel: 01904 610077

Email: annis@partners-group.co.uk    karen@partners-group.co.uk