What is Reasonable access for Fathers – 2021

February 9, 2021
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Welcome to Aspire Family Mediation

Are you?

  • Searching for a cost effective solution to your separation, divorce or child matters
  • Trying to avoid the cost and tension of court battles with your ex partner
  • Seeking to fix disputes without big legal bills and long drawn out painful fights

No matter what your issue, the opportunities to mediate can resolve issues and create solutions for your problems much quicker, instead of months and perhaps years if court action is chosen. The courts now make it a requirement to attend a mediation session prior to court applications in relation to children matters. There are exceptions to this requirement however, which can be talked about with our mediators or by calling us free on 01908 966008

Who can see positive benefit from mediation?

  • Grandparents
  • Former Cohabitants
  • Married Couples
  • Civil Partners
  • Unmarried couples
  • Cohabiting couples

WHAT IS MEDIATION?

Mediation is when a neutral third party works with you and your ex to reach a compromise in the issues and disagreements that you are experiencing. Mediation works to find solutions over child access, divorce and financial disputes and help to create plans and arrangements that need to be agreed upon.

WHY SHOULD THE CASE BE MEDIATED?

Mediation is very effective and can in many cases solve disputes before they reach court. The hope of mediation is that it can build agreements, help couples and family members worth through their disputes and find a way through disagreements. Mediation may not always be the solution and the other party may decide that they do not wish to participate. If this is the case your mediator will be able to advise on your options. You may need a MIAM to provide to show you attempted mediation even if you are the only one who does.

Defining Reasonable Access

Reasonable access refers to the amount of time a non-custodial parent, often the father, is allowed to spend with their child. This access is not strictly defined by law and can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. The primary consideration is always the best interests of the child, which means that reasonable access will differ from one family to another

Factors influencing reasonable access include:

  • Child’s Age and Needs: Younger children may require more frequent, shorter visits, while older children might benefit from longer, less frequent stays.
  • Parental Work Schedules: The availability of both parents can impact the visitation schedule.
  • Distance Between Homes: Proximity can affect how often and how long visits can be.
  • Child’s Routine: Maintaining stability in the child’s daily routine is essential.

In many cases, reasonable access might involve alternate weekends, a few hours during the week, and shared holidays. However, the specifics should be tailored to fit the unique needs of the child and the circumstances of both parents.

The Benefits of Mediation

When disputes arise over visitation rights, mediation can be an invaluable tool. Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps both parents communicate effectively and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Here are some key benefits of mediation:

  1. Control and Flexibility: Unlike court decisions, which can be rigid, mediation allows parents to create a customised plan that works best for their family.
  2. Reduced Conflict: Mediation fosters a cooperative environment, reducing the adversarial nature of custody disputes and promoting better communication between parents.
  3. Cost-Effective: Mediation is generally less expensive than going to court, saving both time and money.
  4. Child-Centric Solutions: Mediators prioritise the well-being of the child, ensuring that the agreed-upon arrangements support their emotional and developmental needs

Aspire Mediation, for example, offers specialised services to help parents navigate these challenging situations. Their experienced mediators provide a supportive space where both parties can express their concerns and work towards a resolution that benefits everyone involved.

Understanding and establishing reasonable access for fathers is essential for maintaining strong parent-child relationships post-separation. By focusing on the best interests of the child and utilising mediation services like those offered by Aspire Mediation, parents can create effective, harmonious visitation arrangements. This approach not only supports the child’s well-being but also fosters a cooperative co-parenting relationship.

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