I’ve titled this final blog of the year ‘looking back on 2020’ but as I write this it should probably be changed to ‘good riddance to 2020’ and fingers crossed for a better 2021!
What a year it has been. I really am hoping that 2021 will bring brighter times for us all but I’ve certainly learnt from this year not to wish for anything other than us all remaining well and ensuring our loves ones are well too.
Clare Madeline Mediation will be closing for Christmas on Friday 18th December and I will re-open on Monday 4th January 2021. I will not be working during this time in order that I can recharge my batteries.
I’d like to take this opportunity to send a heartfelt thank you to you, my valued current, past and prospective clients for trusting me to help you at such a traumatic time of your lives. To my professional colleagues reading this, thank you for your ongoing support of my business and once again trusting me to help your clients.
I know I am not alone when I say this but this year has been tricky to say the least. Coronavirus has meant that I’ve not been as available for clients as I would normally want to be. The juggle of running a business, a home and caring for a little one during the various lockdowns and periods of self isolation necessitated a few changes along the way.
I’ve been lucky to have been able to keep this business which I am so passionate about going to be able to help clients at such a deeply stressful times of their lives. My observation is that divorce and separation has been at a more emotionally intense level this year than previous years and I know that it has been heightened in 2020 by the financial, emotional and practical stresses and strains families up and down the country have been experiencing. Clients have told me that they have found the use of the online video mediation helpful and the outlet for them to discuss the important issues they face on a separation has never been more crucial. I’ve also opened up a few evening slots which clients have found helpful in their own juggle to find time for their discussions. I’ve been working closely with my mediation consultees to help them adapt their businesses, move to online working and be ok with a completely new working environment. I’ve seen such resilience and determination from my family law colleagues to keep offering such a valuable service to clients throughout and I’m proud to be part of this community.
I’ll be continuing remotely for the foreseeable in 2021 particularly as we get through the tough winter months ahead but very much hope that I will at some point in 2021 be able to return to seeing you face to face!
In the meantime, sending my very best wishes to you for the Christmas period and for 2021.
Clare