THIS week is Family Mediation Week – an initiative that aims to raise awareness of mediation and how it can help separating families manage their issues collaboratively and productively.

One Ilkley law firm is offering a free mediation session to anyone struggling with relationship issues.

Rachel Spencer Robb is a partner and head of LCF Law’s Family Law team. She said: “A recent survey has revealed that children who witness their recently divorced parents arguing are more likely to suffer from mental health issues. With divorce rates in the UK on the rise, it’s essential parents consider counselling services mediation and get specialist legal advice on the practical and emotional consequences of divorcing from an early stage to protect all parties – especially the children.

“The lockdowns are being blamed for the increase in divorce, but we have found that if relationships were in difficulty anyway, then the lockdowns have simply magnified the problems. The additional pressures of home-schooling children, financial worries and so on, have brought forward what in all likelihood would have occurred in any event. What’s important is that people are made award of the benefits of family mediation. We would encourage separating couples to consider family mediation as a way of helping them take control, make decisions together and build a more collaborative future for their family, which is why we are offering these free sessions.”

To arrange a free virtual half-hour consultation with Rachel Spencer Robb call 01943 885 790, email rspencerrobb@lcf.co.uk or visit www.lcf.co.uk