families who are separating can get free help and advice from a new weekly service in Oxford.

Oxfordshire Family Mediation will offer the sessions at the Leys Children’s Centre in Wesley Close, Blackbird Leys, from 9.30am to 11.30am each Friday morning.

Sessions started last week.

The time is spent talking to partners about arrangements for children and other separation matters. The sessions are free, although those on high incomes are asked to contribute £15.

Mediator Kerry Williamson said: “It can be hard to find a time and space to have difficult conversations in a helpful way. I try to make sure people can focus on the things that are most important for them to say.

“Parents want their children to be happy and supported, without arguments or other pressures getting in the way, and mediation gives them a chance to work out how best to do this.”

Jenny Harris, director of Oxfordshire Family Mediation, said: “We are very grateful to St Nicholas and All Saints Charities for funding this project, which aims to provide our services locally where they are most needed.

“The Leys Children’s Centre has also been very supportive and provided a room.”