The ‘I do’s’ can become ‘I don’t’ after a few years. Marriage is one of life’s most important commitments. However, not everyone stands the test of time and ends up getting divorced. The latest data provided by the ONS shows that approximately 42% of marriages in England and Wales end in divorce.

This is why the mediation service has become a key process to help couples manage this difficult time, which often involves children and pets, making the situation more difficult.

Overview of divorce rates

Today, divorce is still a very common problem for couples in the UK. The latest figures reveal that around 113,505 divorces take place in England and Wales each year.

It is true that divorce rates have been falling since 1990. However, following the pandemic, the trend is upwards again, with more cases occurring each year than the previous year.

Couples aged 45-49 are the most likely to divorce and seek support through processes such as MIAM mediation to reduce the emotional and financial burden of divorce.

Main causes of divorce in the UK

People tend to divorce for different reasons, but lack of communication is the one that causes the most misunderstandings and conflicts in the couple, wearing down their relationship.

The second main cause of divorce is linked to money. Financial problems can play a dirty trick on the relationship and generate tension due to differences in spending or financial goals.

Another major cause of divorce in the UK is infidelity. Approximately 20% of British adults have admitted to having had an affair, breaking trust and the basis of the relationship.

Over time, couples may realize that they were not as soul mates as they thought. For no reason at all, a rift can occur, causing divorce to be in the air.

The impact of divorce on families

Divorce doesn’t just affect the people in the relationship, it can also involve another part of the family, such as the children. Studies show that young children can experience problems such as anxiety, depression and difficulties at school when their parents divorce.

Using processes such as MIAM mediation, couples can reach more amicable agreements that priorities the welfare of their children, seeking cooperative co-parenting arrangements that reduce conflict.

But it is not only children who can be harmed by divorce. There are also cases where grandparents have been involved, even pets. Therefore, it is important to have medication services to deal constructively with the emotional burden of the situation.

Tips for managing the legal process of divorce

During divorce proceedings it is very important to understand what your legal rights and obligations are. It is therefore advisable to seek advice at the beginning of the process, to prepare for everything that is to come.

Before you start divorce proceedings, make sure you have all the documents that are needed and those that you think are important, such as bank statements or property deeds.

If children are involved, their welfare should be the priority. Mediation services can help create child-focused custody arrangements that support the children’s emotional and developmental needs.

There is no doubt that divorce is a painful process, but it can be managed more smoothly with the help of professionals. In such cases, the focus should be on cooperation and that both parties come out of the situation as unscathed as possible.