Recent data from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) indicates a significant increase in the number of Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings (MIAMs) and mediation starts in the latest quarter. This surge reflects growing awareness and utilisation of alternative dispute resolution methods in family law.
Key Statistics
From January to March 2023, the number of MIAMs increased notably compared to the previous year. Mediation starts also saw a significant upward trend, highlighting a shift towards resolving family disputes outside the courtroom.
Factors Contributing to the Increase
Several factors have contributed to this rise, including:
• Policy Changes: Recent changes in family law procedures have encouraged more parties to seek mediation.
• Awareness Campaigns: Enhanced public awareness campaigns about the benefits of mediation.
• Court Backlogs: Increasing delays in court proceedings have made mediation a more attractive option for timely dispute resolution.
Benefits of Mediation
Mediation offers numerous advantages over traditional court proceedings, such as:
• Cost Efficiency: Generally less expensive than litigation.
• Time-Saving: Faster resolution of disputes.
• Confidentiality: Mediation sessions are private, unlike court cases which are public.
• Flexibility: Solutions can be tailored to the specific needs of the parties involved.
Government Initiatives
The government continues to promote mediation through various initiatives, aiming to reduce the burden on courts and provide more amicable solutions for families in conflict.
For further details, you can visit the Family Law Week website for comprehensive statistics and analysis on family court activities for the first quarter of 2023.
What To Do Now
If you’re considering divorce or separation, family mediation offers a constructive, cost-effective way to resolve disputes without the stress and expense of going to court. By working with a professionally trained mediator, you can reach practical agreements that reflect the needs and interests of everyone involved — especially children.
At We Mediate, we provide a comprehensive range of services to support you through every stage of your separation. Our experienced and accredited mediators help you navigate complex issues such as financial arrangements, child contact schedules, co-parenting strategies, and communication challenges, all in a safe and confidential setting.
We believe every family deserves a fair, respectful, and accessible path through separation. Our focus is on creating balanced outcomes that prioritise the wellbeing of all parties, and our commitment to affordability means we can support families across England and Wales, no matter their circumstances.
Before starting mediation, you will need to attend a MIAM — a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. This is a confidential one-to-one session with an accredited family mediator, where you’ll learn more about how mediation works and whether it’s suitable for your situation. We can usually arrange MIAMs quickly, often within 24–48 hours, with daytime and evening appointments available. Book your MIAM today to take the first step towards resolving matters in a more cooperative and less adversarial way.
If you’re ready to explore a more amicable approach to divorce or separation, we invite you to browse our website or contact us directly. Whether you’re just beginning to consider your options or are already in the midst of proceedings, our team is here to guide and support you at every stage. Schedule your consultation today and discover how mediation can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
You can call us on 0333 567 1676 or click here to send us a confidential email.
