How does family mediation work, and how do I get started?

Complete the referral form using the button below. Once it is submitted, a member of our team will contact you, usually within 24 hours, to talk and understand your situation.

We set up initial individual meetings, lasting about 45 minutes, for each of you to find out more about mediation. The cost of this initial meeting is £99 inc VAT per person.

We can see people alone or together. Many people prefer to come on their own for this session, because it helps them get things clear, explain how they feel and what they are concerned about, and what issues they need sorting out.

If you would prefer an initial joint meeting, to avoid delay or because you are travelling some distance, that is fine. Just mention it when you make your referral. There will always be a part of the appointment for you on your own, and we will talk to you both separately about violence, intimidation or harassment which might make mediation unsuitable for you.

The mediator will also discuss what you hope to achieve and answer any questions you have about the process.

You meet together with your ex-partner and a trained mediator in a series of joint meetings. As much of the work in mediation is about improving communication, joint meetings are the most effective approach. This is usually around two to three meetings for children's matters, and may be more for complicated financial issues. You decide after each meeting whether you want to continue.

At your assessment meeting we will discuss the costs involved. We can usually offer fixed fees for each mediation session, which include the time we spend with you and the document preparation afterwards. Fees are payable after each session.

When you reach agreement, your mediator records it. For property and financial matters we draft a Memorandum of Understanding and an Open Financial Statement, which you can take to a solicitor if you want your agreement made legally binding.