I WANTED to draw your readers’ attention to a change in the law which will hit many people, and which comes into effect on April 22.

From then it will be compulsory for divorcing and separating couples to attend a mediation meeting before they can make an application to court.

Courts will be required to know mediation has been considered before they are able to proceed with an application.

This meeting will give families an opportunity to find out if there is an easier and quicker way of settling their separation then heading to court.

Family mediation does not try to keep couples together, but instead helps them find long-term solutions.

This is one of the most significant changes in the law affecting divorcing and separating couples for many years.

Anyone wanting to find their local mediation service can do so by entering their postcode at nfm.org.uk/local.

Jane Robey Chief Executive National Family Mediation