Family Mediation Council
Find an accredited family mediator near you.
Online · England and Wales
Family mediation
Family mediation is a meeting, or a series of meetings, where a trained mediator helps you and your ex agree arrangements for money and children without going to court. The mediator doesn't take sides or make decisions for you. An agreement about money can then be made legally binding with a consent order.
9 organisations listed. Listings are for information, not endorsements. Details can change, so check with each organisation.
Mediation organisations
National Family Mediation
Family mediation charity with mediators across England and Wales.
In person · Online · England and Wales
Relationships Scotland
Family mediation, counselling and child contact centres across Scotland.
In person · Online · Phone · Scotland
Family Mediation NI
Mediation for separated parents in Northern Ireland, now part of Relate NI.
In person · Online · Northern Ireland
Scottish Mediation
Find a mediator in Scotland, or call the Scottish Mediation Helpline.
Online · Phone · Scotland
Family Mediators Association (FMA)
Find a family mediator who is a member of the Family Mediators Association.
Online · UK
College of Mediators
Search a directory of mediators, including family mediators, who are College members.
Online · UK
Family Mediation Voucher Scheme
Government contribution of up to £500 towards family mediation about children.
Online · England and Wales
Direct Mediation Services
Family mediation service with centres across England and Wales and legal aid funding.
In person · Online · Phone · England and Wales
Filter mediation by where you live, cost and how to get help
When should you try mediation?
Mediation suits couples who can still talk, even if it's difficult. In most cases you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before you apply to court about children or finances, unless an exemption applies, mainly where there is domestic abuse (Family Mediation Council). At the MIAM the mediator checks whether mediation is safe and suitable for you.
How much does mediation cost?
The Family Mediation Council's guide is about £120 per person for a MIAM (Family Mediation Council) and £130 to £170 per person per hour for mediation sessions (Family Mediation Council). If your case involves a child, the government's Family Mediation Voucher Scheme can pay up to £500 towards mediation, though not the MIAM (GOV.UK). Legal aid can cover mediation if you're on a low income, and if one of you qualifies, the first full session is covered for both of you.
How to find a family mediator
Check that the mediator is accredited on the Family Mediation Council register, which you can search by name, postcode or registration number. Ask about fees, whether they take the voucher, and whether sessions can be held online or in separate rooms. You can also find a mediator on divorcd.
Guides that may help
Other kinds of help
This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Facts checked 20 October 2026.
Need urgent help? If you're in immediate danger, call 999. Free domestic abuse helplines, open 24 hours: in England 0808 2000 247 (Refuge, for women), in Wales 0808 80 10 800, in Scotland 0800 027 1234 and in Northern Ireland 0808 802 1414. Men can call the Men's Advice Line on 0808 801 0327, weekdays. Samaritans: 116 123.