The National Mediation Helpline (NMH)
National Mediation Helpline
What is the National Mediation Helpline?
In conjunction with the Civil Mediation Council HMCS set up The National Mediation Helpline, which provides civil court users in England and Wales with information and advice on mediation. If requested, the Helpline can put callers in contact with an accredited mediation provider who can provide low cost mediations.
The Helpline can be accessed by phoning 0845 603 0809 (local rate) between 8.30am and 6.00pm. The Helpline advisers provide callers with information on the potential benefits of mediation and they will talk parties through the mediation process. The Helpline does not provide advice on individual cases or mediators. If the call is a request for a mediator then the Helpline adviser will ask a series of questions and pass the enquiry to a mediation provider accredited by the Civil Mediation Council.
The mediation provider will then contact the parties to discuss the suitability of the dispute for mediation. If all parties agree to proceed a mediator will be appointed and a date and time of mediation will be set.
Mediation fees charged by the National Mediation Helpline.
| Amount of dispute | Fees** | Time allowed | Additional time |
|---|---|---|---|
|
£5,000 or less – Small Claim* |
£50 + VAT £100 + VAT |
1 hour 2 hours |
£50 + VAT per hour |
| £5,001 to £15,000 – Fast Track | £250 + VAT | 3 hours | £84 + VAT per hour |
| £15,001 to £50,000 – Multi Track | £375 + VAT | 4 hours | £93.50 + VAT per hour |
* The mediator/mediation provider should agree in advance whether the Small Claim should be dealt with in one or two hours. For the one-hour rate the option is available to facilitate settlement over the telephone if appropriate, and if the parties agree.
** If you are on a low income or in receipt of public funding, you may be eligible to a discounted or nil fee. Please inform the Helpline adviser of this request. They will be able to direct you to an organisation who will deal with your request. Please note that you will be required to prove your financial status.
If the claim is for more than £50,000, the fees will need to be agreed with the organisation providing the mediation.
If you have any questions about mediation generally, or the National Mediation Helpline in particular, the Helpline provides a list of frequently asked questions.