According to the UK Census, cohabitation is a growing trend in the UK. The total number of cohabiting couples has increased from around 1.5 million in 1996 to around 3.6 million in 2021, an increase of 144%.

The Census also states that more children are now born to cohabiting couples than married couples. Approximately 1.3 million children live with cohabiting parents, which is about 15.3% of all families with dependent children.

It also shows that 46% of the population are under the wrong impression that cohabiting couples form a common law marriage.

This CPD course is an opportunity for mediators to gain a greater awareness about cohabiting couples in mediation.

The pre-webinar reading looks at:

  • The law that deals with cohabiting couples and non-married partners
  • How separation affects Property and Children
  • The court’s power relating to cohabiting cases
  • There are also 2 case studies to read to prepare for webinar discussion.

The webinar will include:

  • What questions to ask cohabiting couples in mediation
  • Equitable accounting – the need to be fair
  • Useful documents
  • Case studies with group discussion
  • A space for discussion on this topical issue

Date : Thursday 3rd September 2026 – 9.30-11.30am

Course Length : Pre-reading 1 hour approx, followed by an online webinar – 2 hours. The webinar will build on the pre-reading so do take time to work through the materials in good time before the webinar.

Trainer : Louisa Whitney

Cost : £60.00

CPD Category : 3

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