Mediation Voucher Scheme

The family mediation voucher scheme is designed to support parties who may be able to resolve their family law disputes outside of court.

On the back of the success of the mediation voucher scheme for separating couples, the Government has further extended the available funding for the financial year 2026/2027 in an effort to try to help families resolve their disputes without the need to go to court.

The continued investment by the Government is testament both to the success and benefits that mediation can offer.

Vouchers worth £500 each have been used to help couples find mutually agreeable solutions without otherwise having to enter into often lengthy, costly and acrimonious courtroom battles.

Research from the Family Mediation Council has suggested that of 7,200 completed cases using the vouchers, more than two-thirds reached agreement without the need to go to court.

What is family mediation?

Family mediation is a process where an independent, professionally trained mediator helps the couple work out arrangements for their children and finances where there is a dispute.

The mediator will help them explore possible solutions and practical ways of moving forward when a relationship has come to an end, while trying to improve communication between them.

Mediation can take many forms, with the mediator working with the parties either together or separately, in person or through video calls, and with or without their legal advisers, to help them find a solution that works for them.

Learn about the different forms of mediation in our latest insight. 

Benefits of mediation

Although mediation may not be suitable in every case, where it is the benefits can be profound, both for the parties but especially children of the family.

1. Cost-effective resolution: court proceedings can be lengthy and expensive. Mediation is typically quicker and more affordable, and the voucher scheme further reduces financial barriers.
2. Child-focused outcomes: mediation prioritises the best interests of children, helping parents reach agreements that support their well-being. It can help to protect children by removing the bitterness of parental disputes which are often amplified through the court process.
3. Supporting communication: it promotes effective strategies that enable the couple to work together so that they are able to achieve agreed outcomes tailored to their particular circumstances in the short, medium and long term, without the need for a judge to decide and impose a solution on them and their family
4. Reduced conflict: the collaborative nature of mediation can help reduce animosity between parties, fostering healthier communication and co-parenting relationships.
5. Confidential: mediation is confidential, unlike proceedings in the family court
6. Relief for courts: by encouraging mediation, the scheme eases the burden on family courts, allowing them to focus on cases where there is no other suitable alternative.

Who is eligible for a voucher?

Eligibility for the £500 voucher remains unchanged and continues to be available to all those who would not otherwise qualify for legal aid, to put towards the cost of their mediation.

Although it is not means tested, there remain some key points to be aware of:

• the mediation voucher will not cover the cost of a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) or the preparation of any documents
• the voucher is limited to £500 per family
• the vouchers are restricted to cases where there is a dispute regarding a child or children, whether or not there are also financial issues to resolve
• both parties must give consent to the mediator providing necessary information to the Ministry of Justice. This will include your name, the bill for mediation services you receive from the mediator and some basic information about your case.

Impact on families

Since its launch, the family mediation voucher scheme has helped thousands of families navigate the challenges of separation. By providing a supportive, less adversarial environment, the scheme has enabled parents to create sustainable agreements without resorting to court battles. Many participants have reported improved communication and a greater sense of control over the outcomes.