Family Mediation: A Constructive Way Forward for Separating Families

Family Mediation Week: 26 – 30 January 2026

Family Mediation Week is a national awareness campaign led by the Family Mediation Council (FMC). The aim of the week is to highlight the benefits of family mediation and to help separating couples and families understand how mediation can support them in resolving disputes constructively, cost-effectively and with dignity.

Further information about Family Mediation Week, including its aims and resources, can be found on the FMC’s website: https://www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/fmw/

As part of Family Mediation Week, the FMC will be hosting a series of free online webinars, publishing guidance, blogs and press features across local and national media. Several of these webinars are specifically designed for members of the public who want to understand more about family mediation and whether it may be suitable for them.

You can view the full webinar timetable here: https://www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/family-mediation-week-2026-timetable/ . These sessions are an excellent starting point for anyone considering separation, divorce or resolving family disputes outside of the court process.

What Is Family Mediation?

If you are separating from your partner or going through a divorce, family mediation may help you resolve outstanding issues in a supportive and practical way, without the need for contested court proceedings.

Family mediation is a voluntary process involving an independent, professionally trained mediator who helps both parties discuss and resolve matters arising from their separation. The mediator does not take sides and does not make decisions for you. Instead, they support constructive discussions and help you reach agreements that work for your family.

Common issues addressed in family mediation include:

• How assets should be divided
• What should happen to the family home
• Whether spousal or child maintenance should be paid and how much
• How pensions should be dealt with
• Arrangements for children, including living arrangements and time spent with each parent

The focus is always on reaching fair, workable outcomes while keeping control firmly in your hands.

What Are the Benefits of Family Mediation?

Family mediation offers a number of important benefits, particularly for families who wish to avoid the stress and cost of court proceedings.

Control Over Decision-Making

Mediation allows you and your former partner to make decisions together, rather than having outcomes imposed by a court.

Reduced Conflict

The process is designed to minimise confrontation and encourage calm, productive discussions, which can be especially valuable where children are involved.

A Child-Focused Approach

Mediation helps parents prioritise their children’s needs, supporting more positive co-parenting relationships and long-term family stability.

Improved Communication

Many clients find that mediation improves communication and helps establish healthier ways of discussing future issues.

Cost-Effective and Time Efficient

Mediation is usually quicker and significantly less expensive than contested court proceedings.

Flexible and Adaptable

Arrangements agreed through mediation can be reviewed and adapted if circumstances change in the future.

How Does the Mediation Process Work?

The process usually begins with a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM). This is an individual meeting with a mediator to explain the process and assess whether mediation is suitable for your circumstances.

If both parties agree to proceed, joint mediation sessions will follow. These sessions typically last one to two hours, and the number required will depend on the complexity of the issues involved.

If agreement is reached, the mediator will prepare a Memorandum of Understanding, so that you are both clear about the proposed agreement that you have reached.

What Happens After Mediation?

The Memorandum of Understanding is not legally binding. You will be encouraged to seek independent legal advice, and your solicitor can explain the legal implications of the proposed agreement.

Where appropriate, the agreement can be made legally binding by incorporating it into a Consent Order. Alternatively, some arrangements, particularly those relating to children, may be kept flexible if that better suits your family’s needs.

How We Can Help

We understand that separation and divorce can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. Our experienced family law team works alongside trusted family mediators to support clients throughout the mediation process and beyond.

We can:

• Advise you before, during and after mediation
• Explain your legal position clearly and practically
• Formalise agreements reached in mediation where appropriate

If you would like advice about family mediation, or your options following separation, please contact our team for a confidential discussion.