Since the law changed in 2014, there has also been an increased demand for mediation services. The Government stated that separating parents must first consider using mediation to resolve their issues around divorce and separation before applying to the courts.
Mediators offer help in many aspects of separation and divorce, including issues such as child access arrangements, finances and the separating of assets. Mediation is a cost-effective way of resolving a dispute when weighed up against a long-drawn-out legal battle.
(Mediators also work with families who have fallen out, i.e., siblings, parent/s and children, etc.)
AVIVA report 11th January 2018: “the average costs of a divorce has risen to £14561. That is without a major dispute”.
Our Charges are:
MIAM (Mediation Information & Assessment Meeting) – £150.00.
Further meetings £125 an hour, per person. Average number of meetings 3 to 4.
Time frames:
Legal route can take years – Mediation a few months.
When it comes to a break up most people have no idea where to start, it’s very daunting and confusing, so being offered a structured point in the right direction is a great way to help clients.
Couples need to move forward and not get bogged down with conflict that can go on for years creating upset and costing in terms of money and energy. Working towards a resolution is the Mediators primary goal.
Before mediation can begin, there is firstly a one-to-one meeting called a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment meeting), the MIAM helps clients decide what they would like to do next.
The MIAM is a private and confidential meeting, packed with information to help clients move forward. The Mediator will be gathering information and answering any questions clients may have.
The MIAM meeting is carried out using WhatsApp, Facetime, or Zoom and takes up to an hour. There is also the option to meet face to face, however this may incur additional charges depending on client’s location and availability.
2022 Government Voucher Scheme – £500 worth of Mediation – not means tested.
The government announced the extension of the Vouchers Scheme, investing in family mediation, to support families to resolve issues relating to children and children & finances. Under the scheme, the Ministry of Justice will provide contributions of up to £500 per family, to resolve issues relating to children following parental separation. The fund will reduce the costs of mediation for at least 2000 families across the UK.
John Taylor, Chair of the Family Mediation Council said ‘This government investment in mediation is much welcomed by the Family Mediation Council. It will help separated families agree solutions that are best for their children, taking into account what is going to be important for them as they grow up. Family mediation is a proven cost-effective way to resolve differences following separation. This voucher scheme will make it even more accessible, and will help families resolve issues for themselves, without having to go to court.’
Family mediation is a process in which an independent, professionally trained mediator helps parents work out arrangements for children and finances following separation. Mediation can also be helpful when previous child arrangements need to change, particularly as children grow up.
For more information:
Contact us: Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm (3.00pm Friday)
- Phone: 01908 310010, 07484096166 or 07484096479 (this number is only available at limited times)
- Email: appointment@relatemk.org