Family Mediation & MIAMs for Children, Finances and Court​

We Mediate helps separating and divorcing couples resolve arrangements for children and finances without the cost and stress of court. We also provide MIAMs and the court certificates you need if you are applying to the family court. Everything is handled online by accredited family mediators, and a £500 government voucher is available for eligible cases involving children.

Family Mediation for Children and Finances

Family mediation is a voluntary process that helps separating or divorcing couples, co-parents and family members resolve disputes with the help of a neutral, accredited mediator. It is a practical, far less stressful alternative to court, and it keeps the decisions about your family in your hands rather than a judge’s. Below are the two areas we are asked about most.

Child Arrangements Mediation

When parents separate, the hardest questions are often about the children: where they live, how time is shared, schooling, holidays and how you will make decisions together in future. Mediation gives you a calm, structured space to agree a parenting plan that puts your children first. Because the arrangements are ones you have shaped yourselves, rather than imposed by a court, they tend to work better and last longer. Where it is appropriate and in their best interests, children can also be given a voice through child-inclusive mediation. Learn more about how the mediation process works.

Financial and Property Mediation

Separation usually means untangling finances: the family home, savings, pensions, debts, income and how everything is fairly divided. Mediation helps you work through this openly, on the basis of full financial disclosure, and reach a settlement you both understand and accept. It is typically far cheaper and quicker than contested financial proceedings, and where you want your agreement to be binding, a solicitor can turn it into a consent order for the court to approve. You can see our fees for a clear picture of the cost.

We Can Also Help With

• Divorce and separation agreements, giving you clear, practical arrangements as you separate.
• Parenting plans, setting out detailed agreements built around your child’s needs.
• Grandparents’ arrangements, helping preserve important family relationships.
• Online and international mediation, so distance is never a barrier. Read about online family mediation or mediation for parents living abroad.

MIAMs and Court Certificates

If you need to apply to the family court for a Child Arrangements Order or a Financial Order, you must first attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), unless a valid exemption applies. A MIAM is a straightforward, confidential meeting with an accredited mediator to explain your options and assess whether mediation could resolve matters without court.

Attending a MIAM is a legal requirement even if you are certain court is your only route. If mediation is not suitable, or you decide not to proceed, the mediator can issue the signed certificate you need for your court application. You can read more about MIAMs or book your MIAM online.

What Changed in April 2024

Since the Family Procedure Rules changed on 29 April 2024, the courts in England and Wales expect a genuine effort to resolve matters away from court before you apply. Mediators must now explain all forms of non-court dispute resolution, MIAM exemptions have been reduced and require evidence, and a party who unreasonably refuses to attend a MIAM or engage in non-court dispute resolution may face costs consequences. In short, a MIAM is now both a practical first step and, in most cases, a requirement.

The £500 Family Mediation Voucher

The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme is a government-backed initiative offering a voucher worth up to £500 towards the cost of mediation, for disputes involving arrangements for children. It is not means-tested, and it has been extended to March 2027. We are proud to support the scheme and will check your eligibility at your MIAM, there is nothing for you to apply for yourself. Read more on our fees page.

Why Choose We Mediate

• Accredited mediators. Our team is trained and accredited by the Family Mediation Council and committed to the highest professional standards.
• Child-focused. We keep the well-being of children at the centre, and can include their voice where appropriate.
• Cost-effective. Mediation is usually far cheaper than court, saving time, money and stress.
• Confidential and impartial. A safe, neutral space where you can speak openly.
• Online and flexible. Sessions arranged around your life, with no need to travel.
• £500 voucher available. Funding for eligible cases involving children.

Take the First Step Today

Facing a family dispute is daunting, but taking the first step towards mediation is a positive move towards resolving things and moving forward. Whether you want to mediate or simply need a MIAM certificate, our accredited mediators are here to help. Call 0333 567 1676, send a confidential message, or book your MIAM online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is family mediation?

Family mediation is a voluntary process in which an impartial, accredited mediator helps you resolve disputes about children, finances and property following separation or divorce. It is confidential, and usually far quicker and cheaper than going to court.

Can mediation cover both children and finances?

Yes. Mediation can address arrangements for children, financial and property matters, or all of these together. Your mediator will help you work through each issue and record what you agree.

Do I need a MIAM to apply to court?

In most cases, yes. If you are applying for a Child Arrangements Order or a Financial Order, you must attend a MIAM first unless a valid exemption applies. If mediation does not go ahead, the mediator can issue the certificate you need for your application.

Is my agreement legally binding?

A mediated agreement is not automatically binding. If you want it to be, a solicitor can convert it into a consent order for approval by the court, which is common for financial settlements.

Am I eligible for the £500 voucher?

You may be eligible if your case involves arrangements for children. The scheme is not means-tested and has been extended to March 2027. We will confirm your eligibility at your MIAM.

Can mediation be done online?

Yes. We conduct MIAMs and mediation sessions online, so there is no need to travel or take significant time off work.