Warring parents' trail could go nationwide

The project aims to help couples resolve their differences.

It is one of many proposed measures which include electronically tagging mothers who refuse to let their former partners see their children or giving them curfews under tough new laws.

They could also be forced to undergo community service or anger management classes if they defy court orders giving access to separated fathers.

The measures are expected in a new Government bill in the next parliament, part of a raft of reforms for the much-criticised family justice system.

Ministers are introducing ways to help parents resolve differences in the interests of the child to avoid potentially damaging, costly court battles.

The year-long Family Resolution pilot scheme puts parents through sessions on conflict management and highlights the harm disputes can cause to children.

Parents who seek contact orders will be encouraged to go to mediation and try to agree on their own arrangements within two weeks instead of waiting 16 weeks for a court hearing.

They are given one-to-one sessions to agree a parenting plan which, if necessary, can be ratified by a judge.

They work with Relate counsellors and have the chance to meet other parents experiencing the same problems.

Children's Minister Margaret Hodge said: "By helping more parents agree practical solutions that will benefit their children, we believe that we can divert many families from lengthy, costly and damaging disputes.

"We recognise there are times when it may be necessary for a case to involve the courts, such as those involving domestic violence."

Fathers' groups are not convinced the mediation service will be a success.

Tony Coe, president of the Equal Parenting Council, said: "It isn't going to make, as far as we can see, any practical difference.

"Mediation is all well and good and we are all supportive of mediation but it is of no value if you don't have the authority of the court behind it."