Family law solicitor shines spotlight on children’s mental health and wellbeing

A Cheshire-based family law solicitor believes that creating a safe and supportive environment is key to improved mental health and wellbeing for children and young people.

This year’s theme for Children’s Mental Health Week was ‘Let’s Connect’, which focused on making meaningful connections to help improve wellbeing.

The awareness week was launched in 2015 by Place2Be, a children’s mental health charity with more than 25 years’ experience working with pupils, families, and staff in UK schools.

Lauren Soutar, member of the family department at Warrington’s Watsons Solicitors, said: “Due to the nature of family law, we represent and support many clients through the divorce process, and it’s hugely important that the needs of children are catered for.

“Watsons has always ensured young people’s feelings and best interests at the heart of the divorce process.

“The thoughts and opinions of minors can often be overlooked, or ignored completely, so this awareness week puts the spotlight on what issues children and young people face, and how those around can provide support.”

Place2Be understands that parents and carers play an important role in teaching children and young people how to understand and manage their feelings as they grow.

With that in mind, the charity has come up with three helpful tips:

• Find time to talk, just the two of you: ‘Check in’ with them while you’re doing things together, so they get used to talking about their feelings.
• Play together: Play helps them to be curious, learn new things, solve problems, and express feelings without words.
• Be a role model: Show how you cope with difficult feelings and look after yourself.

Lauren added: “Growing up isn’t a straightforward process and there are many challenges and obstacles to overcome.

“Family law presents a variety of situations and scenarios that children and young people have to deal with. While something like a divorce may not be avoidable, what is non-negotiable for Watsons is minimising any impact on the health and wellbeing of clients and their families.”

Watsons Solicitors, which has been established for more than 60 years, specialises in family law, employment law, wills and probate, and conveyancing.

The team of experienced solicitors each hold various accreditations and memberships of professional bodies relevant to their expertise, while the firm’s partners oversee all areas of work.