How does family mediation work and how do I get started?

Complete the referal form by clicking the button below. Once submitted a member of our team will contact you, usually within 24 hours to talk and understand your situation more.

We then set up an initial individual meetings which will last about 45 minutes for both of you to find out more about mediation, the cost of this initial meeting is £99 inc vat per person. We can see people alone or together. We find that many people prefer to come on their own for this session because it helps them to get things clear, to explain how they feel and what they are concerned about, as well as what issues they need sorting out. If you prefer an initial joint meeting to avoid delay or as you are travelling some distance that is fine just discuss that when you make your referral. However there will always be a part of the appointment that is for you on your own and we will also talk to you both separately about violence, intimidation or harassment which might make mediation unsuitable for you. The mediator will also discuss with you what you hope to achieve and answer any questions that you may have about the process.

You meet together with your ex-partner and a trained mediator in a series of joint meetings. As much of the work in mediation is about improving communication then joint meetings are the most effective approach. This is usually around 2-3 for children’s matters and may need more for complicated financial issues. You decide after each meeting if you want to continue. At your assemen tmeeting we will diuscus with you the cost involved with process. We will usually be able to offer fixed fees for each mediation session which will include the time that we spend with you and document preparation afterwards. That fees will be payable after the conclusion of each mediation session.

You meet together with your ex-partner and a trained mediator in a series of joint meetings. As much of the work in mediation is about improving communication then joint meetings are the most effective approach.This is usually around 2-3 for children’s matters and may need more for complicated financial issues. You decide after each meeting if you want to continue.

Mediation is a flexible service and you are free to re approach us at any time if your circumstances change If mediation is not going ahead and you are applying to court then you normally attend a “Mediation Information and Assessment meeting” (MIAM) and have a form completed to show you have considered mediation. It is a requirement that anyone applying to court on children or financial matters has to attend a meeting with a mediator. This recognises that adversarial courts proceedings are often not the best way to resolve private family issues which are often best resolved through discussion and agreement, where that can be managed safely and appropriately. Our staff are all qualified to undertake these meetings and the content will be as in our other initial meetings. If mediation is clearly not going ahead because the other person is not willing to take part then we will complete the form you need to file with any court application. In those circumstances there will be a small charge for the meeting and completion of the form £99 inc VAT.