Stephen Burke, the newly appointed Chair of the Family Mediation Council (FMC), has emphasised the underutilisation of family mediation services in the UK. Despite its proven benefits, family mediation remains relatively unknown among the public. Burke, who began his tenure on 12th June, aims to change this by raising awareness and promoting the advantages of mediation in resolving family disputes.
Background and Vision
Burke brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having chaired the Norfolk Family Mediation Service and led various charitable foundations. His extensive background in family services positions him well to drive the FMC’s goals forward. One of his primary objectives is to enhance the visibility and credibility of family mediation. He acknowledges that many people still opt for traditional court proceedings due to a lack of awareness about mediation as an alternative.
Burke is committed to building on the work of his predecessor, John Taylor, who served as FMC Chair for eight years. During Taylor’s tenure, significant strides were made in establishing mediation as a viable option for families. Burke aims to continue this progress by focusing on regulation, standards, and funding.
The Benefits of Mediation
Family mediation offers a less adversarial and often more cost-effective solution compared to court battles. It allows families to resolve their issues collaboratively, reducing the emotional strain on all parties involved, especially children. Mediation also tends to be quicker and more flexible, providing tailored solutions that suit the unique needs of each family.
Despite these benefits, many families are still unaware of mediation’s potential. Burke aims to change this by advocating for better public education and ensuring that mediation services are more accessible. He believes that with the right support and funding, family mediation can become a mainstream option for resolving disputes.
Future Plans
Under Burke’s leadership, the FMC plans to focus on several key areas:
1. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the benefits of family mediation and how it works.
2. Improving Accessibility: Making mediation services available to more families across England and Wales.
3. Enhancing Standards: Ensuring that mediators are well-trained and adhere to high professional standards.
4. Securing Funding: Advocating for increased funding to support mediation services and make them more affordable.
Burke is optimistic about the future of family mediation and is dedicated to making it a well-known and widely used resource for families in need.
Conclusion
Stephen Burke’s appointment as Chair of the FMC marks a new chapter in the promotion and development of family mediation in the UK. With his experience and vision, there is hope that more families will become aware of and utilise mediation services, leading to better outcomes for all involved.
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What To Do Now
If you’re considering divorce or separation, family mediation offers a constructive, cost-effective way to resolve disputes without the stress and expense of going to court. By working with a professionally trained mediator, you can reach practical agreements that reflect the needs and interests of everyone involved — especially children.
At We Mediate, we provide a comprehensive range of services to support you through every stage of your separation. Our experienced and accredited mediators help you navigate complex issues such as financial arrangements, child contact schedules, co-parenting strategies, and communication challenges, all in a safe and confidential setting.
We believe every family deserves a fair, respectful, and accessible path through separation. Our focus is on creating balanced outcomes that prioritise the wellbeing of all parties, and our commitment to affordability means we can support families across England and Wales, no matter their circumstances.
Before starting mediation, you will need to attend a MIAM — a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. This is a confidential one-to-one session with an accredited family mediator, where you’ll learn more about how mediation works and whether it’s suitable for your situation. We can usually arrange MIAMs quickly, often within 24–48 hours, with daytime and evening appointments available. Book your MIAM today to take the first step towards resolving matters in a more cooperative and less adversarial way.
If you’re ready to explore a more amicable approach to divorce or separation, we invite you to browse our website or contact us directly. Whether you’re just beginning to consider your options or are already in the midst of proceedings, our team is here to guide and support you at every stage. Schedule your consultation today and discover how mediation can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
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