Hertford Mediation

I knew little of mediation before I trained as a family mediator and my knowledge of it was mostly around disputes in the workplace. However, it was through hearing the lived experiences of those close to me who had faced the challenges of the court process and the lasting impact it had on their lives that I learnt more about the value and need of mediation for families. I feel very passionately that the principles are an absolute force for good and can achieve life changing results, I wanted to be a part of that.

Clients come to mediation at their most vulnerable. They face a scary, daunting and uncertain future ahead and, in a lot of cases, talking to me is the first time they have really been able to express this. Without doubt, it is helping them realise that there is a route through and alleviating some of the concerns that have been consuming them. When a successful solution comes together and seeing my clients feel positive rather than fearful about their future is undoubtedly the most rewarding experience, I have been able to enjoy in my career to date.

It is always difficult when conflict has reached such a point that the child’s/children’s voice in the decision-making process has fallen far back from front and centre, and this happens all too often. In many ways, I can understand how this can happen and I am empathetic to that, if I feel that resentment is taking over from creating a workable plan for the children, I always bring their voice back into the room because, ultimately, both parents want what is best for their children and reminding them of that often renews their ambition to work together.

Mediate UK has a dedicated team of office staff and mediators who are all genuinely passionate about family mediation. This network is an excellent way for us to share our ideas, challenges and questions about our industry and day to day experiences at work. Some days can throw you a curveball and new challenges arise frequently, but we put our heads together as a group, each drawing on our different expertise and find solutions. This is uniquely invaluable when working in this sector.

1. I am passionate about music and have tried to learn pretty much all instruments from the harp to the cello and many others in between.
2. I am a first-time dog mum to a gorgeous fox red Labrador who is slowly working her way through all my furniture. Caution: asking me about her may cause a lengthy off tangent monologue!
3. I grew up in Devon and know of nothing more invigorating than swimming in the sea, I will and do swim whatever the weather. When I'm not near sea I will find my local lido to take a dip in.
4. My mum used to work for David Bowie and both my parents are lifelong musicians.
5. I am passionately interested in politics and current affairs which can make me quite unpopular at a party.