People often present understandable fears and practical concerns when considering Family Mediation instead of immediately proceeding to the Bournemouth and Poole County Court and Family Court. Recognising and addressing these barriers is essential for professionals promoting mediation
Emotional and Historical Barriers – These barriers stem from the breakdown of the relationship and are often rooted in fear or anger.
| **Client Barrier | Underlying Fear/Statement | Solution / Mediator Response** |
|---|---|---|
| “It’s Just Not Suitable” | “My ex is too angry/narcissistic/unreasonable. It will just be another argument.” | Process Control: Explain the mediator’s role as an impartial controller. Stress that the mediator enforces rules and can end sessions if conflict escalates. Introduce Shuttle Mediation (separate rooms) to remove confrontation. |
| “I Don’t Trust Them” | “They always lie about money/income. I won’t agree unless I see proof.” | Documentation Focus: Assure the client that mediation requires full financial disclosure, just like court. The mediator provides a legal framework (Form E, bank statements, pension valuations) to ensure transparency before any agreement is finalised. |
| “It’s Too Late” | “I’ve already consulted a solicitor and we’re ready to file at the Bournemouth Court.” | Cost Comparison: Highlight the major time and financial savings. Show mediation as a final, often expected step. Even if they filed, the Judge will encourage mediation. An agreement now is much faster and cheaper than an FDR or trial. |
When barriers to mediation happen it usually involves misunderstanding the legal status or outcome of mediation. Here are some misconceptions and the facts;
THE BARRIER – It Won’t Be Binding –“We’ll agree, and then they’ll just change their mind next week. It’s pointless.”
THE FACTS – Memorandum of Understanding is converted into a legally binding Consent Order by a solicitor and sealed by the Family Court, making it just as enforceable as a Judge’s order.
THE BARRIER – I”I Won’t Be Protected –“We’ll agree, and then they’ll just change their mind next week. It’s pointless.”
THE FACTS Suitability is assessed at the MIAM. If there is un-managed domestic abuse mental health issues, or an extreme power imbalance, mediation may be deemed unsuitable, and the court route is recommended.
THE BARRIER – It’s Too Expensive – “I can’t afford the mediation sessions and my solicitor.”
THE FACTS National Family Mediation can check eligibility for Legal Aid (which can support the cost of mediation) or the Government Voucher Scheme (£500 for child-related disputes).
There are practical issues relating to time, geography or family logistics in the local area.
“I Can’t Find the Time” I work full-time and have the kids at weekends. I can’t take days off.
Flexibility: We offer online/remote mediation sessions (Zoom/video conference), evening slots, or weekend availability to fit around work commitments. Remote mediation can significantly reduce travel time.
“I Don’t Know Where to Start” “What do I need to bring? What forms do I need?” Mediation offers a simple four step process;
1. Attend MIAM.
2. Collect financial documents (Form E checklist).
3. Joint sessions.
4. Draft agreement. This reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed
By addressing these common barriers proactively, mediators can show clients that the mediation process is structured, protective, and specifically designed to overcome the difficulties that led to the separation, providing a superior alternative to litigation.
Local Court Contact Information – Bournemouth and Poole County Court and Family Court – Deansleigh Road, Bournemouth, BH7 7DX
Key Takeaway – Mediation is built on safeguards: if you cannot be protected or cannot reach an agreement, the process stops, and the door to the Bournemouth Court is immediately opened via the MIAM Certificate.
National Family Mediation offers Services in the Bournemouth area.
Call the Team today on 03300 101 367 or fill out a contact form here.
Our Bournemouth Mediation Hub Strictly by Appointment Only. Location is not staffed.
Mediation and urgent MIAM appointments can be arranged online
Our Bournemouth Mediation Hub Address;
Below is some information on Barriers to Family Mediation and Solutions, for other useful information see our FAQ page here https://nationalfamilymediationservice.co.uk/faqs/
National Family Mediation Service in Bournemouth