Standard mediation assumes both parents arrive with the same emotional clarity, but the reality is often far more complex. In our latest episode of Conflict to Connection, Bill Hewlett and Professor Anne Barlow discuss the myth of the "level playing field" and how a focus on emotional readiness and "family repair" can prevent mediation from becoming an adversarial forum.

In England and Wales, "common law marriage" is a legal myth that leaves many cohabiting parents in a vulnerable position. In this episode of Conflict to Connection, Professor Anne Barlow (University of Exeter) joins us to discuss the "legal shock" many families face during separation and how child-inclusive mediation can provide the essential framework that the law currently lacks.

Does separation harm children? Why do children reject a parent? And what actually helps when conflict has gone on for years? In this Q&A episode of Conflict to Connection, we answer questions submitted by parents and explore what children need most during separation. The full conversation offers clarity, nuance, and a child-inclusive perspective for families navigating difficult decisions.

Telling your children you are separating can feel overwhelming. Many parents focus on finding the right words, but children respond just as much to what they feel in the room. How you show up together matters more than saying everything perfectly.

The recent Beckham family story has sparked intense public debate but behind the celebrity headlines lies a deeply human experience. This piece looks beyond blame to explore how pressure, trauma, and misalignment can strain family relationships, and why many situations like this are not beyond repair.

When children are given the chance to speak openly about their experience of separation, they rarely ask for different arrangements. Instead, they talk about the conflict between their parents and the emotional toll it takes.

In this episode of the Conflict to Connection, child inclusive mediator Mabel Edge shares real examples from her work, revealing what children actually say when they feel safe enough to be honest, and why reducing conflict matters far more than perfecting schedules.

This week on Conflict to Connection, we were joined by Mable Edge, Co-Founder and Director of Children First Mediation, for one of the most candid and insightful conversations on child inclusive mediation we’ve had to date.

Who gets the children at Christmas is one of the most emotionally charged questions after separation. This article explores how to approach Christmas arrangements in a way that reduces conflict and keeps children’s wellbeing at the centre. With insight from Elizabeth Fletcher at Family Law in Partnership, it looks at common arrangements, emotional considerations, and how clear, child-focused planning can help families navigate the festive period more calmly.

A new year can be a helpful moment to reset the emotional tone between co-parents. This piece explores five simple, steady ways to strengthen your co-parenting relationship in 2026, with insight from James Pirrie at Family Law in Partnership.

Your first Christmas after divorce can bring up grief, guilt and uncertainty, but you don’t need to make it perfect. Children need clarity, calm routines and emotionally available parents. This guide, with insights from Relationship Therapist Jo Harrison, explores simple ways to support your children and care for yourself during your first Christmas apart.

In this episode of the Conflict to Connection podcast, Mitch, Bill, and Bella delve into the intricacies of managing relationships within blended families, offering insights and compassionate guidance for those navigating this pivotal change.

In this episode of the Conflict to Connection podcast, hosts Mitch, Bill and Bella delve into the fascinating world of attachment theory, an essential tool for anyone facing separation or divorce, particularly in high-conflict situations.

Children don’t need perfect parents during separation, they need emotionally present ones. Explore practical ways to support your child’s wellbeing, strengthen communication, and build a more connected co-parenting future.

Co-parenting after a difficult separation can feel overwhelming. This guide explains how to reset the tone with your ex, reduce conflict and create a calmer dynamic for your children.

Life after divorce often feels uncertain. This FAQ answers parents’ most common questions about co-parenting, children’s emotions and how to rebuild stability after separation.

Coparenting after divorce can feel overwhelming, especially after a high-conflict separation. This guide offers seven clear, practical steps to help parents lower tension, rebuild trust and support their children through change.

Discover how to move from conflict to connection after divorce. This guide explores co-parenting with empathy, supporting children through change, and rebuilding healthier family dynamics. Inspired by our Conflict to Connection podcast episode “Divorced, Now What?”, it offers practical, compassionate advice for creating stability and new beginnings after separation.

Lily Allen’s new album, West End Girl, has become one of the most talked about releases of the year since its debut. With its raw and honest lyrics, the record explores the emotional fallout of her marriage breakdown with actor David Harbour.

The UK’s latest family law reform marks progress for children and survivors of domestic abuse but real change requires listening, not just legislation.

Conflict during separation can feel endless but often, it’s not really about the issue at hand. In our latest Conflict to Connection episode, Mitch, Bill, and Bella from Civilised Separations explore how our childhood experiences shape the way we argue and connect as adults.