Family Mediation UK 2026 | Process, Costs & Guide

What Is Family Mediation?

Family mediation is a process in which a trained, independent mediator helps you and your ex-partner work out arrangements — about children, finance or property — without going to court. That is the definition used by GOV.UK, which also notes that mediation is "usually cheaper and quicker than going to court".

The mediator is impartial: they do not take sides, judge, or give legal advice. Their job is to help you both reach workable, child-focused agreements. Family mediators in England and Wales work to the standards of the Family Mediation Council (FMC), which maintains the register of accredited mediators — and only FMC-authorised mediators can conduct the MIAMs required before court applications (FPR r3.1).

How Family Mediation Works

If mediation doesn't resolve everything, you can still apply to court — the mediator signs the confirmation your C100 needs (court fee £270 since 13 July 2026 — GOV.UK).

What Family Mediation Costs

| Item | Cost | Source | |------|------|--------| | MIAM | Typically £120–£150 per person | GOV.UK · FMC 2025 | | Mediation sessions | £130–£170 per person per hour (guide, incl. drafting) | FMC | | With legal aid | Free (MIAM and sessions) | GOV.UK | | Voucher scheme | Up to £500 per case towards sessions (children cases; not the MIAM) | GOV.UK |

The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme is not means-tested, is claimed by your mediator, and has been extended until 31 March 2029 (PD36V, amended March 2026). It has supported more than 54,000 parents since 2021 (GOV.UK, May 2026).

Does It Work?

• ~69% of voucher-scheme cases reach whole or partial agreement (FMC, State of Family Mediation 2025; earlier MoJ analysis reported 70%).
• Mediation typically concludes in weeks rather than the many months of contested proceedings.
• Since 29 April 2024, the family justice system actively steers families this way: parties usually file Form FM5 on their position on non-court dispute resolution, courts can adjourn to encourage it, and unreasonable refusal can affect costs in financial cases (SI 2023/1324).

Finding a Family Mediator

Use the FMC's Find a Mediator directory — the official register for England and Wales. Charities such as National Family Mediation also provide services nationally, including legal aid work. Check:

• FMCA accreditation (or working towards it under supervision);
• whether they hold a legal aid contract (if you may qualify);
• whether they offer the voucher scheme, online sessions, shuttle or child-inclusive mediation; and
• their fees, in writing, before you book.

Note: family mediation in Scotland and Northern Ireland operates under different rules and bodies — this guide covers England and Wales.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is what I say in mediation confidential?

Mediation discussions are confidential and generally cannot be used later in court (they are 'without prejudice'), with exceptions for safeguarding risks. The Open Financial Statement is an exception - financial disclosure is open.

Can mediation cover both children and money?

Yes — child arrangements, child maintenance, property and finances can all be mediated. The £500 voucher applies to disputes involving children (including financial disputes running alongside a children dispute).

What if my ex refuses to mediate?

Mediation is voluntary, so no one can be forced. You attend your MIAM, the mediator records the position, and you can apply to court. In financial cases, a party who unreasonably refused to mediate may face costs consequences under the post-2024 rules.

Is the agreement enforceable?

Not by itself. Ask a solicitor to convert your Memorandum of Understanding into a consent order — once approved by the court, it is legally binding and enforceable.

Sources & Further Reading

• GOV.UK — Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
• GOV.UK — Making child arrangements
• Family Mediation Council · State of Family Mediation 2025 (PDF)
• Family Procedure Rules Part 3
• National Family Mediation

Content fact-checked against GOV.UK, the Family Procedure Rules and the Family Mediation Council: July 2026.