Professional mediation

Mediation sessions are run by professionals who help you try to reach an agreement without going to court.

Mediation isn't relationship counselling and you don't have to be in the same room as the other parent.

You could get up to £500 towards family mediation

This is a scheme that provides a contribution to the cost of family mediation. It is only available for a limited time.
Find out more about the family mediation voucher scheme .

Choose Professional mediation if...

You both want to reach an agreement but need help from someone who is independent.

If you've been invited to mediation, find out what it means for you .

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Pros

it's quicker than court in most cases
can be cheaper than using a lawyer
less conflict between parents
helps children continue family relationships
agreements are flexible

Cons

you'll need a consent order to make agreement legally binding
process won't work unless parents can co-operate

Understanding family mediation

Step 1 Find a mediator

Mediator rates can vary depending on their experience and your location. Some offer reductions if you're unemployed or on a low income.

Check with the mediator before booking and don't be afraid to shop around.

Step 2 Book initial meeting with mediator

You must then meet with the mediator to check if mediation is right for you. The mediator will also tell you about other options to help you reach an agreement.

This initial meeting is called a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

The other parent will need to see the mediator too. They can either come to the same MIAM as you or have a separate meeting with the mediator.

If you or the other parent want to go to court you must attend a MIAM, unless you're exempt.

At the meeting the mediator will explain:

how mediation works
the benefits
whether it's right for you
the likely costs
if you're eligible for mediation through legal aid
other options available to you

If you apply to court only mediators authorised by the Family Mediation Council can carry out a MIAM. Check with the mediator before you book.

Average cost of MIAM per person

£120

Estimated fees may vary depending on your location and the experience of the mediator. Some mediators offer reductions if you're unemployed or on a low income. It may also be cheaper if you attend together. If you or the other parent are eligible for legal aid you both will qualify for a free MIAM.

Step 3 Attend mediation sessions

Mediation usually takes place face-to-face with the other parent over several sessions. Each session lasts about 90 minutes.

You can choose to have mediation:

in the same room
in different rooms (shuttle mediation)
on different days
with your children (child-inclusive mediation)
with a lawyer (lawyer-assisted mediation)

During the sessions the mediator will:

discuss what your options are
make sure you and the other parent both have a chance to speak
tell you when you might need further help (for example pension advice)
ensure you make decisions together that are in your children's best interests

Average cost of mediation per person

£480

Estimated cost based on an average of 3 sessions. Fees may vary depending on your location and the experience of the mediator. Some mediators offer reductions if you're unemployed or on a low income. Legal aid may be available for mediation. You could get up to £500 towards family mediation.

Step 4 Get agreement in writing

If you both reach an agreement the mediator will write down the details. This isn't legally binding but is flexible so you can both agree to update it if your situation changes.

Making your agreement legally binding

You can ask a lawyer to draft a consent order if you or the other parent prefer to make your agreement legally binding.

This can be useful if your arrangements are long and complex or you think you need a more formal agreement with the other parent.

GOV.UK has more information about consent orders and making your agreement legally binding.

Other types of mediation

Shuttle mediation

Your mediator may suggest that you and the other parent sit in separate rooms while the mediator 'shuttles' between you. This is a good option if you'd prefer not to meet the other parent face-to-face or don't feel safe to do so.

Shuttle mediation is usually more expensive than standard mediation because it's a longer process.

Lawyer-assisted mediation

This is different to standard mediation because you and the other parent can both hire lawyers who attend sessions with you. Your lawyers can also help with shuttle mediation.

As mediators can't offer legal advice you may want to choose this option if you have a lot of complex legal issues to resolve.

You'll need to consider the additional cost of a lawyer if you select this option.

Child-inclusive mediation

If your children understand your situation you can ask them to attend so a mediator can hear their wishes.

Talk with a mediator first about whether it's suitable to involve your children and remember to check if your children are happy to take part.

You'll need to make sure your mediator is qualified to offer this service before booking.

When mediation may not be suitable

Child abuse or neglect

You shouldn't make arrangements with the other parent if you think they:

are abusing your children
are neglecting your children
have a drug or alcohol problem that's affecting your children

Find out more about child abuse and neglect

Report child abuse if you have any concerns and tell your children about Childline so they can report any abuse themselves.

You can also report a concern about a child online to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

Domestic abuse

Mediation with the other parent may not be suitable if you think they pose a threat to you or your children's safety.

Find out more about signs of domestic violence if you're unsure whether you're a victim.

Report domestic violence when it's safe to do so and you think you're a victim.

If you need to access support, Citizen's Advice has a list of organisations which can help you. Domestic violence and abuse - getting help - Citizens Advice.