£500 towards the cost of family mediation
What is the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme is a government initiative designed to help families resolve disputes without the need for court proceedings. Introduced in response to the pressures on the family courts following Covid-19, the scheme encourages separating couples and families to consider mediation as a constructive way of reaching agreements.
If eligible, parties can receive a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of mediation sessions, making it a cost-effective alternative to litigation.
Am I eligible for a Family Mediation Voucher?
If you are considering family mediation in Oxfordshire to help resolve disputes without going to court, you may be able to benefit from the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme.
When you attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM), your trained mediator will assess whether your case is suitable for mediation and if it meets the criteria for the government-funded voucher scheme.
You are likely to be eligible if your case involves:
- A dispute or application about child arrangements (such as where a child lives, contact, or parental responsibility); or
- A dispute relating to family finances where there is also an issue involving a child.
Please note: the voucher does not cover the cost of the MIAM itself. It can only be applied to mediation sessions that follow. The scheme applies if you attended a MIAM on or after 26 March 2021.
How does the Family Mediation Voucher work?
If you decide to proceed with mediation and your mediator confirms eligibility, they will apply for the voucher on your behalf. The £500 contribution is then paid directly to the mediator once the sessions are complete. There is no physical voucher, and you won’t need to make a separate application yourself.
Funding is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so availability is not guaranteed. Your mediator will confirm if vouchers are still available.
Family Mediation with Slade Legal
At Slade Legal, our accredited family mediators will explain the scheme in detail and guide you through every step of the process. Mediation can provide a quicker, less stressful, and more cost-effective way to resolve disputes about children or finances compared to going through the family courts.
To learn more about the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme or to book an appointment, please contact our Karen Newman today on 01235 521920 or email karen.newman@slade-legal.co.uk