family and civil mediation

Jason and Tracy

communication is the key

Jason and Tracy had not been married, but had lived together for two years, and had a one-year-old daughter called Jade. Their relationship had been punctuated with arguments, and they both accepted that they could not live together any longer. They were anxious about how they could live apart - Tracy was very worried about how she would manage to keep the mortgage going, and Jason did not know how he could afford a property of his own.

Their mediator looked at the benefits position with them, and gave them information regarding help with the mortgage and the rent, should Jason find a flat for himself. Neither was aware that help was available, and as they both needed help in applying for their benefits, the mediator arranged for them to have an appointment at the Citizens Advice Bureau, so that they could receive specialist help in this area.

Acceptable proposals were reached after two months, during which time applications were made for benefits, enabling their proposals to be put into effect. Both Jason and Tracy were surprised at the level of practical help that was given to them, as well as information regarding legal matters relating to their particular circumstances. They both felt that if they had dealt solely through their separate solicitors that matters would have become more hostile, and their relationship would have deteriorated. As it was, they both felt that their relationship as Jade's parents could continue, and although there may be disagreements from time to time, they both said that if they could not sort things between themselves, they would not hesitate to return to mediation.