Most people look forward to their holidays – indeed we will all look forward to some sort of break when we are free of COVID and can travel freely. However, for separated parents, what is often a logistical challenge of some proportions, 2021 has probably become more like a military operation. Planning a holiday with children when you are separated can seem like a huge … [Read more...]
Online mediation and new appointments – a personal view
After 14 months of working online as a mediator, I can see the potential of it and the benefits for clients, mediators, and mediation. COVID thrust us into a new world of online mediation, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Skype. In my case, very much against my will and I had to develop an additional set of skills as an online mediator. Of course, I had concerns about: How do I make sure that the … [Read more...]
COVID Christmas. Separated parents and children.
The latest COVID-19 lockdown is difficult for everyone and, even though we know it’s due to come to an end on 2ndDecember, making plans for how we will spend Christmas and whether we can see our families seems just about impossible. Christmas will definitely be different in 2020 in many ways, but for separated parents, who still have to make plans for their children and try to manage … [Read more...]
My children don’t live with me full time. Can I still see them during the coronavirus lockdown?
Many separated parents are confused and worried about whether they will be able to see their children during the current coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown if they are not the parent with whom the children usually live or if they have a co-parenting arrangement. After initial confusion following instructions that we should stay at home and away from others, the government has provided … [Read more...]
Family Matters responds to increase in use of antidepressants by children
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed its concern over the significant rise in the use of antidepressant drugs by children between 2005 and 2015. Reports show that the number of children being prescribed the drugs in the UK rose by 54% during that period, despite a fall after a warning in 2004 that some of the drugs may lead to suicidal behaviour. What are the concerns relating to … [Read more...]
