Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
Find out if you are eligible for the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme and how to apply.
Family Mediation Voucher Scheme – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
What is the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme?
The family mediation voucher scheme is a time-limited scheme, designed to support parties who may be able to resolve their family law disputes outside of court.
The Government has set up the scheme in response to Covid-19 to support recovery in the family court and to encourage more people to consider mediation as a means of resolving their disputes, where appropriate.
To support this, a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the costs of mediation will be provided, if eligible.
Only mediators authorised by the Family Mediation Council (FMC) are taking part in the voucher scheme.
How many vouchers will I receive?
If you have an application or dispute relating to a child and also have a financial issue application or dispute ongoing at the same time, you can still only receive up to £500.
If you make a second application and have already received a voucher, you will not be offered a second voucher under this scheme.
How do I know if I am eligible for a mediation voucher?
On attendance of a MIAM, a trained mediator will assess the issues which you seek to resolve to see if they are suitable for mediation and meet the eligibility requirements for the voucher scheme.
Not all cases are eligible under the scheme. The case types specified below are eligible for a mediation voucher:
- a dispute/application regarding a child
- a dispute/application regarding family financial matters where you are also involved in a dispute/application relating to a child
It is important to remember that mediation is only an option when both people agree to take part in it, so you and the other person will need to agree to mediate.
How do I apply for a mediation voucher?
At your MIAM, the mediator will discuss the voucher scheme with you if your case might be eligible. You will be offered a ‘voucher’ contribution, subject to suitability, case type and availability of the vouchers.
Speak to your mediator.