UPDATE: is the onus on me to sort out mediation

[TheOrdinaryPoster2]

I lost my name change during all the data protection log in stuff.

Just wanted to update as I had a lot of advice from you all.

I went to mediation. Ex didn’t turn up for his. He’s now had no contact since January. I am fully blocked on all numbers and emails bounce back. I went to see a solicitor who said I could apply for a child arrangements order but their best advice was to do nothing and wait and see if he will make a move.

Ex has moved his new partner into his house. I don’t think we will be hearing from him for a long time. DD is surprisingly ok, but mentions him quite a bit at bedtime. I’m still in shock tbh!

No it's not on you. If he was desperate to see his child he would be moving heaven and earth to get through mediation/court to arrange contact. Mediation only works if both parties are invested.

Having said that, it would do no harm for you to have a record that you tried to instigate it.

Also be mindful that your dd may be telling you what she thinks you want to hear - that she is fine. Keep your eye out for changes in mood/behaviour and look for opportunities for counselling/support for her that's age appropriate.