Financial Support
Financial support may be available to help with the cost of family mediation. Depending on your circumstances and eligibility, you may be able to access legal aid or benefit from the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme. Explore the options below to find out what support may be available and how to get started.
Legal Aid
Legal aid can help eligible individuals with the cost of family mediation, making it easier to access support when dealing with separation, child arrangements or other family matters. Depending on your eligibility and the funding arrangements available, it may cover the cost of your initial meeting and mediation sessions.
Eligibility is assessed based on your financial circumstances and the nature of your case. Not everyone will qualify, so it is important to check what support is available before beginning the process.
How to get started
Contact 1st for Mediation to discuss your circumstances and ask about legal aid for mediation. We can help explain the next steps and direct you towards the relevant application or assessment process with our Legal Aid provider.
Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme in England and Wales provides eligible families with a contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of family mediation. It is designed to help parents and families resolve disputes, particularly those involving children, without the expense and stress that court proceedings can bring.
The voucher is paid directly to the mediator and contributes towards eligible mediation sessions. It does not cover the cost of a MIAM, and it may not cover the full cost of mediation. Eligibility depends on the type of dispute, and vouchers are subject to availability.
How to get started
Begin by booking a MIAM with an authorised family mediator. During your meeting, the mediator can assess whether your case meets the scheme’s requirements and explain whether funding is available. If you are eligible and wish to proceed, your mediator can apply for the voucher on your behalf.
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