SIR – I wanted to draw your readers’ attention to a change in the law which will affect many people living in and around Bradford, and which comes into effect on April 22.

From that date it will be compulsory for divorcing and separating couples to attend a mediation meeting before they are able to make an application to court.

Courts will be required to know that mediation has been considered before they are able to proceed with an application. So a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) will become a must.

This meeting will give families an opportunity to find out if there is an easier and quicker way of settling their separation than heading straight off to court.

Family mediation does not try to keep couples together, but helps them find long-term solutions for the future that are in their own interests, rather than those of solicitors.

This is one of the most significant changes in the law affecting divorcing and separating couples for many years, but one that as yet the man and woman in the street knows little or nothing about.

Anyone wanting to find their local mediation service can do so by entering their postcode at nfm.org.uk/local.

Jane Robey, chief executive, National Family Mediation, Barnfield Hill, Exeter