In episode 1, I talk to Pippa Wood, a relationship counsellor from Relate Jersey. We discuss how counselling can help couples navigate relationship issues and those who have decided that the relationship is at an end and wish to separate amicably. Pippa explains the process and describes how counselling can be used to overcome common issues during or at the end of a marriage.

People often have preconceived ideas about relationship counselling and Pippa helps to debunk some of those myths; hopefully leaving listeners feeling a little more optimistic and open minded about giving counselling a go!

In episode 2, I speak with Helen Morgan and Claire Davies (the Manager and an experienced Mediator) from Family Mediation Jersey. This service helps clients deal with issues in dispute including the division of finances, what should happen to the family home and living arrangements as well as children matters such as contact schedules and where they should live (amongst many other issues).

In the episode we discuss what clients can expect when they embark on a mediation process. Claire and Helen explain the various measures put in place to ensure that clients feel safe and can have full confidence in the process. Claire also describes how rewarding it is when clients get to the end of the process and have found new ways to communicate better – great inspiration and a goal for those considering mediation.

In episode 3, Christina McGhee, a divorce parenting expert, joins me to talk about how parents can deliver the news of a change in the family dynamic to the children in the best possible way, how to help children to cope with those changes and how to co-parent well.

Breaking news to the children about a separation is almost always the biggest worry for parents. In this episode, Christina shares enormously helpful information which parents can implement immediately to help their children deal with changes in the family, whatever stage they are at. Christina provides excellent ideas, tips and great resources for parents and children.

In episode 4, Peter Seymour, of The Mortgage Shop, talks to me about ways in which the former matrimonial home can be retained, the options available to people when they are buying and selling property, the factors taken into account by lenders and the process of securing a mortgage. Peter also explains how to get the most out of a mortgage application and how to progress an application efficiently to avoid unnecessarily long delays.

Aside from worrying about the children, where the family will live after relationship breakdown is the second biggest worry people have. Being proactive, understanding all options and taking control of this issue quickly can help alleviate those fears and may even accelerate resolving the legal aspect of the case.