Behind The Family Charter - Understanding the human dynamics of family succession

Family succession is often discussed in practical terms – ownership structures, timelines and legal arrangements. While these elements matter, they rarely tell the whole story.

This blog looks at the emotional and psychological factors that influence how succession unfolds within families. It will explore common patterns such as avoidance, role expectations, sibling tensions, identity shifts, and communication breakdowns – not as signs of failure, but as natural responses to change within close family systems.

The aim is not to tell families what they should do, but to help make sense of what is often felt but left unspoken.

The monthly articles in this blog are designed to be accessible and reflective.

·  Each post stands alone – you can begin anywhere.

·  Family members may find it helpful to read individually before discussing together.

·  The focus is on understanding patterns, not assigning blame.

·  Some topics may resonate more strongly at different stages of succession.

Hazel Craven brings both lived experience and psychological insight into the topic of family succession. After experiencing the fallout of inadequate succession planning in her husband’s farming business, she pursued a degree in psychology to better understand personality, family roles, and business dynamics. 

She holds a BSc (Hons) in Business Studies and a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and is a Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS). She now works with families alongside her husband to support succession planning through the development of family charters, with a focus on communication, clarity and long-term family and business continuity.

This blog sits alongside the work of Peter Craven, who supports families in developing family charters through his course. While a family charter provides structure and clarity, Behind the Family Charter focuses on the emotional and relational dynamics that families often navigate as they move through change together.