At National Family Mediation, we are committed to helping families resolve disputes constructively. As an accredited mediation service, we participate in this government-backed scheme to make mediation more accessible for you.

What is the Mediation Voucher Scheme?

The scheme was introduced to help families resolve disputes outside of the court system. Because mediation is often faster, less stressful, and more cost-effective than a court battle. The government provides a one-off payment of £500 per family to cover the cost of joint mediation sessions.

Is My Case Eligible?

We do not ‘means-test’ this voucher. Regardless of your income or savings, you qualify for this funding. However, the government reserves these funds specifically for:”

How Does the Process Work?

Navigating a separation is stressful enough without worrying about complex funding applications. We have streamlined our process to ensure that accessing the £500 Government Contribution is as seamless as possible. Here is the step-by-step journey:

Book your initial MIAM:

Every mediation journey begins with a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This is an individual, private meeting between you and a professional mediator.

The Assessment:

We discuss your situation to ensure mediation is a safe and effective way forward.

Voucher Confirmation:

During this talk, we will confirm if your case meets the criteria for the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme (typically cases involving child arrangements).

Please keep in mind that government rules exclude the initial assessment from this funding. Therefore, you will need to cover the cost of the MIAM separately

We Handle the Admin:

Once we confirm your eligibility and both parties agree to proceed, we take it from there.

No Complex Forms: You won’t need to navigate government portals or fill out arduous paperwork.

The Application:

We apply directly to the Family Mediation Council (FMC) on your behalf to secure the funding.

Consent:

We simply require your written consent to share basic case details with the FMC for the application.

Automatic Credit Towards Your Sessions :

The £500 is paid directly to us by the Family Mediation Council to be used as a dedicated credit for your joint work.

Direct Deduction:

This amount is credited against the cost of your joint mediation sessions.

Transparency:

Your invoices will clearly show the voucher credit applied, so you can see exactly how much of the fund remains at any time.

Focused Progress:

By removing the immediate financial pressure of the first few sessions, you and your ex-partner can focus entirely on reaching an amicable agreement.

Moving Toward a Resolution:

The voucher supports the mediation joint sessions where the actual “heavy lifting” of negotiation happens.

Exclusions:

Please keep in mind that the voucher is strictly for joint session time. It does not cover the initial MIAM or the drafting of final legal summaries, such as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or an Open Financial Summary (OFS).

Outcome:

If you reach an agreement, these final documents act as the blueprint for your future arrangements. They can be turned into a legally binding Consent Order by your solicitor.