Mediation is an entirely voluntary process and you cannot force anybody to mediate. However, government is strongly encouraging people to learn about mediation. From 6 April 2011, a protocol was set in place where separating couples assess whether mediation would be a better way of resolving their disputes than battling over them in court. This is part of the government’s plan to reduce pressure on the creaking family courts. Anybody who wants to start court proceedings in a family matter either relating to children or finances on divorce is required to attend an introductory meeting - a ‘Mediation information and assessment meeting’ (MIAM) which will explain about the process of mediation, and seek to determine whether the case might be suitable for mediation.

All parties to such disputes will now be able to find out about mediation, and to make informed decisions as to whether they would like to try to resolve them in a way that not only allows them to reach their own decisions for settlement but is also considerably less costly to the family, always financially and often emotionally.

Simply click on an area of the map to find a Mediator near you. If we don't have one listed please drop us a line and we will do what we can to find you one as soon as possible.

A warm welcome to those firms who have recently joined us and a special thanks to all the National Family Mediation services that have joined our directories.