Family Mediation Week: 27th – 31st January 2025

Explore the benefits of mediation and how it can help you resolve family disputes

This week marks Family Mediation Week, an ideal time to highlight the advantages of mediation for resolving family disputes.

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) offer’s a voucher scheme which will provide a contribution of up to £500 towards the mediation costs for eligible cases, supporting people in resolving their family law disputes outside of court, where appropriate.

For more information on the Scheme and to find out whether your mediation case might be eligible, click here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/family-mediation-voucher-scheme

First things first – what is Family Mediation?

Family mediation involves an independent, professionally trained mediator who helps separating couples navigate challenges and disagreements. The mediator assists in creating arrangements for children, finances, or both.

How does mediation work – what does it look like?

The process begins with an initial assessment meeting where the mediator discusses the process with each individual separately to understand their goals and determine if mediation is suitable. If both parties agree, the mediator will arrange subsequent face-to-face discussions to facilitate constructive and confidential decision-making.

If you do not feel comfortable with face-to- face mediation, the mediator will offer video mediation or shuttle mediation – where you will each be in a separate room and the mediator will shuttle between you.

What are the benefits?

There are several benefits to the mediation process, some of which are set out below:

Cost effective: Mediation tends to be much more cost-effective than involving solicitors. Even if you do not come up with a complete agreement in mediation, the mediator should help you narrow the issues that are being disputed.

Confidential: All discussions within mediation are strictly private.

Faster: Mediation often resolves cases more quickly compared to court proceedings.

Empowering: Mediation gives couples control over the resolution process and ensures no settlement is imposed upon them.

Less Stressful: Mediation fosters open communication and reduces the stress associated with court disputes.

Flexible:  Sessions are scheduled at times convenient for both parties, prioritising their needs and avoiding court delays.

How Wilson’s can help:

By focusing on clear and open communication, family mediation has the potential to get you on the same page. We can support you every step of the way.

Contact us for more information:

Alex Byrne is a Mediator at Wilson’s. He qualified as a mediator in January 2023. He is a member of Resolution and is registered with the Family Mediation Council (FMC) as working towards accreditation.

In addition to his role as a Mediator, Alex also works as a Solicitor in the Family team. Alex’s experience in family law, in both children and financial matters, is invaluable when helping separating couples in Mediation.

If you wish to find out more about mediation and how it could help you, call us on 0208 808 7535 or email us at family@wilsonllp.co.uk.

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