That’s okay – many people don’t at first. Our mediators will help you explore all options. If agreement can’t be reached, we’ll help you understand your next steps.

Yes. You don’t have to be on good terms – just willing to try.

No. In fact, family mediation is often recommended before going to court. Courts expect parents to try mediation first, and in most cases, you’ll need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before making an application to the family court.

A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is your confidential one-to-one meeting with a mediator.

It is your opportunity to learn about mediation and to tell the mediator the topics you wish to discuss during mediation.

Our mediator will assess whether mediation is suitable for you. If mediation isn’t suitable, we can provide you with the form the court needs to confirm that you’ve considered it.

Both parties to the mediation must attend their own MIAM. Once this has happened, a joint mediation session can be booked.

Yes, mediation is confidential. What you discuss in mediation can’t be used in court unless you both agree or there’s a serious risk of harm to a child or vulnerable person. This means you can speak freely and work towards solutions without fear of it being used against you.

Yes. Many parents come to mediation because communication has broken down. A trained mediator is there to help keep the discussion calm, focused, and productive. It’s a safe space where both parents can be heard, even when emotions are high.

Mediation isn’t right for everyone, and that’s okay. If we find it’s not suitable or if agreement can’t be reached, we can signpost you to next steps – whether that’s legal advice, court proceedings, or another support service.

In most cases, mediation is just between you and the other parent, with the mediator present. If you feel you need support, speak to us first – we’ll talk it through and explain your options.