Family Mediation

Family mediation is a way of resolving disputes outside the court system, whether these arise before, during or after relationships break down. It is a voluntary and confidential process that enables both parties to explain what their needs and concerns are to each other in the presence of an independent third party - the family mediator - so that they reach an agreement between themselves.

Family mediation can help to reduce hostility and improving chances of long-term co-operation where this is necessary, for example, child contact. Family mediation is sometimes less expensive than litigation, and it is the parties to the dispute, rather than lawyers or the courts, who control the process.

Family mediation encourages both parties to agree an outcome to their dispute rather than having a judge decide for them. In this way, mediation empowers parties to control the length of the process, the issues they would like to discuss, and the outcome.

The mediator can help both parties identify the real issues and guide the discussion in an open and fair way. The mediation process is informal, straightforward and constructive and can be less intimidating that going to court.

The mediator can give information about the law but cannot give legal advice. It is important that couples undergoing mediation also have access to independent legal advice to ensure that their legal rights are respected and any legal obligations incurred as a result of the mediation are understood. The solicitor can draw up a consent order to make agreements reached through mediation legally binding.

In May 2006, the Family Mediation Helpline was officially launched. The Helpline is a public service designed to provide information on, and improve public access to, family mediation.

Its main purpose is to provide information on family mediation and to facilitate referrals to family mediators. The helpline provides: general information on family mediation; more specific information as to whether particular cases may be suitable for mediation and; some information on eligibility for public funding.

The helpline will put callers in touch with mediators in their local area and; has a database containing over 600 mediation providers across England and Wales.

The helpline number is 0845 60 26 627. There is also a supporting website at https://www.familymediationhelpline.co.uk/index.php Users of the website can access a service finder which identifies the mediation services in their local area. It is also possible for users of the website to contact the helpline operators using an on-line enquiry form.

The helpline operators can also signpost callers to other advice services including Citizens’ Advice Bureaux, Relate, the Domestic Violence Helpline, Parentline Plus and debt and addiction counselling services.