Role Play Series: Pet Mediation CPD

This live online CPD event offers mediators the opportunity to observe a realistic mediation role play focused on pet arrangements.

The session is structured as professional training through simulation rather than performance. The role play reflects genuine mediation practice, featuring authentic dialogue, clear professional boundaries, and mediator-led interventions that support meaningful learning. An experienced observer will provide commentary via the webinar chat, drawing attention to mediator techniques, decision-making, and key moments for reflection.

The scenario centres on Sadie and Angie, a same-sex couple whose relationship has recently broken down. Three years ago, after unsuccessful fertility treatment, they purchased Monty, a pedigree chihuahua who quickly became the emotional centre of their lives. During her MIAM, Sadie disclosed a previous domestic abuse incident involving police attendance. Both participants have completed their MIAMs, and this is their first joint session with the mediator.

Themes explored include the legal status of pets as property versus their emotional significance, the management of domestic abuse disclosures within mediation, emotional symbolism, attachment, and the practical realities of separation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to observe how a mediator:

• Manages domestic abuse disclosures with sensitivity while maintaining professional boundaries
• Explores the tension between legal ownership and emotional attachment
• Encourages participants to articulate needs and concerns without escalation
• Remains alert to potential power imbalances
• Uses techniques such as reframing to move discussions beyond positional language

There will be dedicated time for audience questions, allowing participants to deepen their understanding through guided discussion and professional reflection.