Family Mediation Week: Government-Backed Voucher Scheme Extended Until March 2026

We're pleased to announce that the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme has been extended until March 2026, ensuring continued support for families navigating difficult disputes. This extension provides financial assistance to individuals seeking to resolve family matters through mediation, making the process more accessible and affordable.

What Is the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?

The UK Government introduced the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme to encourage separating and divorcing couples to consider mediation as a cost-effective and less stressful alternative to court proceedings.

Mediation involves a neutral third party, the mediator, helping both sides reach agreements on matters like child arrangements, financial issues, and property division.

Under the scheme, eligible individuals can apply for a voucher that covers up to £500 towards the cost of mediation, helping reduce the financial barriers that may prevent people from accessing this valuable service.

Eligibility for the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme

The scheme is designed to support individuals already facing the emotional and financial strain of family disputes. To qualify for a voucher, individuals must meet certain criteria:

• A family law dispute or application concerning a child.
• A dispute or application regarding family financial matters, provided you are also involved in a family law dispute or application relating to a child.
• Mediation must be conducted with a qualified family mediator registered with the scheme.
• Applicants cannot have received a voucher for the same dispute in the past.

The vouchers are available for both individuals and couples, with the aim of making mediation more accessible, particularly for those facing financial constraints.

Why the Scheme Was Introduced

The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme is part of a broader effort to reform family justice and ease the burden on the court system. By offering financial support, the government aims to:

• Encourage more people to opt for mediation rather than traditional court proceedings.
• Help alleviate the backlog of family law cases within the courts, ensuring quicker resolutions.
• Lessen the emotional and financial toll on families going through separation or divorce.
• Promote family justice goals, focusing on amicable, less adversarial solutions.

Mediation provides a space for individuals to express their views and reach agreements with the help of a trained mediator while also preserving relationships - especially when children are involved.

Impact of the Scheme So Far

Since its introduction, the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme has had a significant impact. Thousands of individuals have benefited from the opportunity to resolve disputes without lengthy court proceedings.

The extension of the scheme recognises its success in offering an affordable and effective alternative to litigation. Families have reported that mediation has enabled them to reach mutually agreeable solutions more efficiently and with less confrontation, which is particularly crucial when children's welfare is at stake.

Feedback highlights the positive effect of mediation on communication, reducing tension between separating parties. For many, the financial assistance provided by the voucher has been essential in allowing them to pursue mediation rather than a prolonged legal battle.

How to Access the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme

The application process is simple. During your MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting), the mediator will assess whether your case qualifies for the scheme. If it does, they will discuss the voucher's availability with you and handle the application on your behalf.

FAQs: Family Mediation Voucher Scheme

How will I receive the voucher?
The voucher is not a physical document. If eligible, the mediator will apply for the funding directly, and the funds will be paid to the mediation service, reducing your overall costs.

Does the family mediation voucher scheme cover all mediation costs?
The voucher covers up to £500 (inclusive of VAT) but may not cover all mediation costs. If your mediation sessions exceed this amount, you may need to cover the additional costs. Be sure to discuss the full cost with your mediator beforehand.

Can the mediation voucher be used to pay for MIAM costs?
No, the voucher cannot be used for MIAM costs. However, if you qualify for legal aid, it may cover the MIAM and subsequent mediation sessions.

Can I use the scheme if I'm also eligible for legal aid?
Yes, you can still apply for the mediation voucher even if you're eligible for legal aid. While legal aid covers the MIAM and ongoing mediation costs, the voucher provides up to £500 toward the mediation costs.

How many family mediation vouchers can I receive?
You can only receive one voucher per family or case, valued at £500. If you have already used a voucher for the same dispute, you are not eligible for another one.

During my MIAM, I didn't receive information about the scheme - Am I still eligible for the voucher?
If your MIAM took place on or after 26 March 2021, you are eligible for the voucher as long as you meet the necessary criteria. If you haven't been informed about the scheme, speak with your mediator to confirm your eligibility.

Get in touch:

If you're facing family disputes and considering mediation, the extended Family Mediation Voucher Scheme could make the process more affordable for you. Our team of accredited Family Mediators and Child Inclusive Mediators is here to assist you in reaching a resolution that works for everyone involved, especially when children's welfare is at the heart of the matter.

To find out if you're eligible or to start the process, contact us today. Call us at 02380 639 311 or email mediation@warnergoodman.co.uk for more information.

Let us help you navigate this challenging time with professional, compassionate support.