When it comes to ensuring that your child receives adequate financial support from the other parent, the conversation can be challenging. However, raising key points during family mediation can make a significant difference. Here are five critical factors to consider when negotiating child maintenance, financial support, or trying to raise more money:
1. Lifestyle Discrepancies
One crucial point to address is the disparity in lifestyles between the two parents. If one parent enjoys a lavish lifestyle for example going on four holidays a year has a nice car, buys expensive gifts for children, orders out good food, goes to the best entertainment events etc while the other parent is in receipts of benefits, may be lucky to get one holiday a year, shops low budget and gives cuddles as gifts, then this discrepancy can lead to children feeling neglected or resenting the parent who fails to contribute fairly. Addressing lifestyle differences through family mediation can help ensure that both parents provide a similar standard of living for the child, fostering a sense of balance and fairness.
Normally it would be the primary carer parent who has a lower standard of living and invariably this means most of the time your child will be living around the breadline. do not be fooled. your children can see this, make a note of it and may well challenge you about this or harbour resentment that you do not care enough about somebody that matters so much to them namely their main caregiver
2. Equalising Standards of Living Post-Marriage
If you were married then you are required to ensure that you both have a reasonably similar standard of living. there are a number of other variables but essentially your lifestyle should be on par for example similar homes, similar cars, similar net income at the end of each month. Family mediation can help both parties agree on a child maintenance arrangement that reflects this principle, ensuring that the child’s welfare is prioritised and that both parents share financial responsibilities.
3. The Drill Sergeant vs. Fun Parent Dynamic
Another important issue to consider is the dynamic between the primary carer, often seen as the “drill sergeant,” and the other parent, who might be viewed as the “fun parent.” The primary carer is usually responsible for the day-to-day tasks, such as getting the children to school, feeding them, and ensuring homework is done. Meanwhile, the other parent may take on a more relaxed role, focusing on fun activities without the daily pressures. This can create resentment if the primary carer feels financially strained or overburdened. Addressing this imbalance through **free mediation** sessions can help both parents understand each other’s roles and find a more equitable solution.
4. Understanding Child Maintenance Calculations
The Child Maintenance Office provides a standard calculation for child support payments. However, if the paying parent is self-employed, their reported income might not accurately reflect their actual earnings. In such cases, family mediation is invaluable. It allows both parents to discuss these discrepancies and negotiate a fairer payment plan, taking into account the real financial situation rather than just the standard formula of child maintenance.
5. Legal Aid and Free Mediation Options
For parents struggling to reach an agreement, legal aid can be a vital resource. If you’re on benefits, you may qualify for legal aid, which can cover the costs of mediation. Additionally, the government offers a voucher scheme providing up to two free mediation sessions. These sessions can be crucial in reaching a fair agreement, reducing tension, and ultimately benefiting the children by securing their financial future. Family mediation not only helps in negotiating fair child financial support but also helps the development of a positive co-parenting relationship, which is essential for the child’s well-being.
Conclusion
Ensuring your child’s financial security is one of the most important responsibilities as a parent. By addressing lifestyle discrepancies, ensuring similar standards of living, and understanding the nuances of child maintenance, you can foster a healthier co-parenting relationship. **Family Mediation Services Ltd** is here to help you navigate these complex issues. Whether you need assistance with **legal aid**, **free mediation**, or general advice on child maintenance, our team is ready to support you.
Contact us today at 0300 365 2700 or email admin@familymediationservices.co.uk to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in securing the best possible outcome for your child.