Family mediation in the UK

Family mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method aimed to bring about an amicable resolution to family problems. Mediation is intended to bring two parties together to communicate, raise issues, understand the other side’s views, clear up misunderstandings, and reach a resolution. It is an informal process guided by an independent third party mediator who is trained in resolving disputes. In the UK, family mediation is a voluntary process, and thus both parties need to agree to participate and to abide by any agreement made in order for it to be successful.

Mediation can be used in all sorts of relationships and disagreements, and is particularly useful in family disputes, as mediation improves communication and helps you build a positive relationship for the future. This is particularly good when children are involved so as to ensure minimum conflict and disruption in their lives. Following the breakdown of a relationship, mediation can resolve: arrangements regarding children; financial arrangements; what will happen to the family home and who will live where and other practical issues such as communication.

In the UK, family mediation is often used after separation or divorce, however, it can also be used at any stage in which family situations have become tense and there are unresolved issues. For example, in the UK, family mediation is often successfully employed to resolve: disputes between a parent and child or stepchild; disputes between adult siblings; disagreements over care of elderly or ill relatives and grandparents and other relatives’ contact with children.

If you would like to obtain legal advice on UK family mediation services, Contact Law can put you in touch with local family mediators free of charge. So, if you have any questions or would like our help in finding local family mediators please call us at 0800 1777 162 or complete the web-form above.