Family mediation explained
Mediation made simple.
Family mediation gives separating couples and parents a clear, structured way to discuss children, finances, property and future arrangements without immediately going to court.
Going through separation?
Need to discuss divorce issues?
Need children arrangements?
Need help discussing finances?
What is family mediation?
Family mediation is a practical process where an impartial mediator helps people talk through family issues after separation.
Simple, structured, impartial
A clearer way to discuss family arrangements.
Mediation can help with child arrangements, parenting plans, communication after separation, property, pensions, savings, debts and other financial matters.
The mediator does not take sides, make decisions or provide legal advice. Their role is to manage the conversation and help both people explore possible solutions.
How it works
The mediation process, in plain terms.
1. Start with a MIAM
A MIAM explains mediation, checks whether it is suitable and allows you to ask questions before deciding what to do next.
2. Invite the other person
If mediation may be suitable, the mediator can contact the other person and invite them to take part.
3. Attend mediation sessions
Sessions focus on the issues you need to resolve, such as children arrangements, finances or communication.
4. Explore options
The mediator helps both people discuss possible arrangements and consider what may work in practice.
5. Record proposals
Where progress is made, proposals can be recorded in documents such as a parenting plan or memorandum of understanding.
6. Take legal advice if needed
Mediation proposals are not automatically legally binding. You can take legal advice about formalising any agreement.
Why use mediation?
Mediation keeps the discussion focused on solutions.
- It gives both people a chance to speak.
- It focuses on practical arrangements rather than blame.
- It can be less stressful than contested court proceedings.
- It can help reduce conflict around children.
- It can help people understand what needs to be decided.
- It can be quicker and more cost-effective than a prolonged dispute.
Compared with court
Mediation can help before conflict escalates.
Court route
- A judge may make the final decision.
- The process can feel formal and difficult to understand.
- Timescales may be outside your control.
- The dispute can become more positional.
Mediation route
- You remain involved in shaping proposals.
- Discussions can focus on the practical issues.
- Online and shuttle options may be available.
- Legal aid or voucher funding may help with costs.
Confidential discussions
Mediation is generally confidential, subject to important exceptions such as safeguarding, risk of harm, financial disclosure and legal obligations.
Financial disclosure
When finances are discussed, both people may need to provide honest and clear financial information so proposals can be considered properly.
Typical mediation costs
- MIAMs from £135 per person.
- Mediation meetings from £135 per person per hour.
- C100 or Form A signing from £60 per person.
- Other document preparation may be charged separately.
Please check the prices page for the latest charges before booking.
Funding support
Legal aid or the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme may help with costs depending on your eligibility, the type of dispute and whether funding is available.
Mediation questions answered
Can my partner tell the court what we discussed in mediation?
Mediation discussions are generally confidential and without prejudice, but there are exceptions. Safeguarding concerns, risk of harm, financial disclosure and legal obligations may affect confidentiality. Ask your mediator to explain this before mediation begins.
How does family mediation work?
It usually starts with a MIAM. If mediation is suitable and both people agree to proceed, sessions are arranged to discuss the issues and explore possible proposals.
What is the cost of mediation?
Costs depend on the service required and the number of sessions. Solent’s listed prices include MIAMs from £135 per person and mediation sessions from £135 per person per hour. Check the prices page for current fees.
How long does family mediation last?
This depends on the issues, the amount of information needed and whether both people are able to engage constructively. Some matters need one or two sessions; more complex children or financial matters may need more.
Are agreements reached in mediation legally binding?
Not automatically. Proposals may need legal advice and, in some cases, a formal court order before they become legally binding.
How can I contact Solent Family Mediation?
You can call 02381 611051 or use the contact page to arrange a callback.
Useful related pages
Before your MIAM
- Think about the issues you need help with.
- Prepare details of any court dates or forms.
- Tell the mediator about safety or domestic abuse concerns.
- Ask whether legal aid or voucher funding may apply.
Need family mediation?
Contact Solent Family Mediation to discuss MIAMs, parenting arrangements, separation finances, online mediation or shuttle mediation.