Mediation Matters: If they're well-designed, Family Hubs can empower families to help themselves

The Chief Executive of National Family Mediation returns with a regular column

Last autumn a family policy document endorsed by 57 MPs and a number of Lords caused a stir amongst decision-makers. A Manifesto to Strengthen Families set out a range of recommendations aimed at creating stronger families: 18 policies to address the various challenges that its authors considered need to be faced.

It contained a number of eye-catching suggestions: for example, statutory Family Impact Assessments that would form a fundamental part of all Government departments’ policy development, potentially putting families at the heart of future initiatives and legislation.

And there was the proposal to encourage all local authorities to work with voluntary and private sector partners to deliver ‘Family Hubs’ – specialised centres offering a range of family services.

Read the full article here.