As of early 2025, the government voucher scheme has already helped 37,700 families access mediation services across England and Wales to settle family disputes without going to court. The scheme has now been extended for 2026-27.
This means that even more families can now use the mediation voucher scheme to apply for £500 towards the cost of mediation to help resolve issues involving children.
What is the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?
The scheme is designed to provide support to families, which allows them to reach mutually beneficial agreements through mediation, rather than relying on court proceedings which can be lengthy and stressful.
If you are separating from your partner and need to make arrangements for your children, under the scheme you may be able to receive a £500 contribution towards the cost of working with an accredited mediator.
Mediation can help parents resolve issues such as:
- Where children will live
- How much time they will spend with each parent
- Schooling and day-to-day arrangements
- Communication and co-parenting
The focus is on finding practical solutions that work for your family, particularly your children.
What does the extension mean for families?
By continuing the voucher scheme, it means that further financial support for mediation is available for another year.
This is particularly important at a time when many families are looking for ways to manage separation in a more constructive, amicable and affordable way.
Why consider mediation?
Mediation is not always suitable, but where it is appropriate, it can offer families a number of benefits.
Mediation is often:
- Quicker than court proceedings
- More cost-effective, especially with the voucher contribution
- Less adversarial, which can help reduce conflict
- Focused on the needs of children
It also allows parents to have more control over the outcome, rather than having decisions imposed by a judge.
Who can access the voucher?
The scheme is available for cases where a family is in dispute over issues relating to their children and both parties are willing to attend mediation.
A mediator will assess whether mediation is safe and suitable and, if so, will apply for the voucher on your behalf.
The £500 contribution is then paid directly to the mediator and goes towards the cost of the sessions.
What is the first step?
Before starting mediation, you will usually need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).
This is an initial meeting where the mediator explains the process and considers whether mediation is appropriate in your circumstances.
How we can support you
Even if you choose mediation, getting expert, independent legal advice is still important.
At Consilia Legal, we are accredited family mediators and can help you to resolve your family issues. As family solicitors we can also:
- Help you understand your legal position
- Advise you before, during and after mediation
- Review any proposals or agreements reached
- Assist in making agreements legally binding where needed
Our aim is to support you in reaching a resolution that is both practical and in the best interests of you and your children.
If you are separating and would like to explore mediation or understand your options, our family law team is here to help. You can call us to arrange a free 15 minute consultation on 0113 322 9222 or email us at enquiries@consilialegal.co.uk.