The Welfare Checklist diagram showing seven child-focused factors used in family mediation and court decisions: child's wishes and feelings, needs of the child, impact of changes, child's characteristics, parental capability, risk of harm, and courts options. Brighter Future Mediation logo displayed at bottom with website URL.
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When parents separate, one of the most pressing concerns for is how decisions about their children will be made. Whether you’re considering mediation, preparing for court, or simply trying to understand your options, the Welfare Checklist is a fundamental framework that puts your child’s needs at the centre of every decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what the Welfare Checklist is, why it matters, and how understanding it can help you make better decisions for your family’s future.

Gavel on dark surface with two wooden cutouts of people beside it, representing family court matters
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Family law reform: Putting children’s safety first in the courts

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Brighter Future Mediation welcomes a landmark shift in UK family law that prioritises child safety over automatic parental contact. Following years of campaigning and a comprehensive government review, the presumption of parental involvement in private law children cases is set to be repealed – a move hailed as a victory for children affected by domestic…

Judge’s gavel on a sound block, symbolising justice and UK family court decision-making.
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Family court delays: why thousands of children are still waiting for justice

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A broken System: what the latest report reveals The latest report from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) paints a stark picture of the UK’s family justice system. As of December 2024, over 4,000 children were caught in family court cases lasting more than 100 weeks, nearly two years! Despite a legal requirement for most public…

Two hands holding wedding rings above a legal document, symbolising divorce proceedings in the UK.
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Divorce in England and Wales: a complete guide

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At Brighter Future Mediation, we understand that divorce is more than a legal process—it’s a personal journey. This guide is crafted to help you navigate the divorce process with clarity and confidence. Key highlights: Minimum timeframe: 6 months from application to final divorce order Court fee: See latest court fees here (help may be available…

child contact in family mediation – supporting parents to reach agreements outside of court

What is the £500 family mediation voucher scheme?

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The family mediation voucher scheme is a government initiative designed to help families resolve disputes outside of court. It offers a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of mediation, encouraging more people to consider mediation as a constructive and cost-effective alternative to litigation. Only mediators authorised by the Family Mediation Council (FMC)…