Mediation For Dog Owners Helping Dog Owners Resolve Disagreements Dogs are an important part of our families, and when disagreements arise between dog owners, emotions can quickly become difficult to manage. Disputes can happen for many different reasons. Perhaps two...
OTHER INSIGHTS
Are mediation agreements legally
binding?
An agreement reached in family mediation is not automatically legally binding. It is an agreement between the parents, and the mediator can record what has been agreed. To make the arrangements legally binding, you usually need a court order. Key legal distinction (at...
MEDIATION: TAKING THE FIRST STEP
CAN BE THE MOST CHALLENGING.
Mediation stands apart from most dispute resolution methods due to its non-confrontational nature. There doesn't need to be a winner and a loser; instead, both parties can emerge victorious, as the mediator facilitates an agreement that benefits everyone involved....
Family Mediation Voucher
Scheme
This UK Government scheme helps separated parents use family mediation to sort out disputes without going to the family courts.
1) What the scheme is
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme provides up to £500 to help pay for family mediation. Family mediation is a process where an independent professional (a mediator) helps you talk through issues and try to reach an agreement.
2) What the scheme covers
The voucher can be used towards the cost of mediation sessions (the meetings where mediation takes place).
- Value — Up to £500 per family/case is available for mediation sessions.
- Disputes about children — This includes issues such as where children live, contact arrangements, and parenting decisions.
- Children plus finances — It can also apply where children’s issues are being discussed alongside financial matters.
3) What it does not cover
The voucher does not cover the MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting).
MIAM means a first meeting where you speak to a mediator to find out what mediation is and whether it is suitable for your situation. The voucher applies only to the mediation sessions themselves.
4) Who can use it
The scheme is not means-tested. This means you do not need to be on a low income to qualify.
5) How it is applied
In most cases, you do not apply for the £500 yourself.
If the case is suitable and funding is available, an accredited family mediator (a mediator who meets the required professional standards) will apply on your behalf.
Mediation can be arranged so you and the other person mediate separately, which means you do not have to be in the same room.
6) Current status
Status: The scheme has been extended for another year and will continue to operate into 2026