On 03 June 2022, the Ministry of Justice announced an additional £5.4 million funding for the family mediation voucher scheme. This investment, which equates to a further 10,200 vouchers for the year 2022/2023, will ensure even more families have the opportunity to avoid stressful and expensive courtroom battles*. The voucher scheme, which was launched in March 2021, has been a huge success. Vouchers have been granted to over 8,400 families so far, with the majority of participating couples reaching full or partial agreements without going to court.
What is the family mediation voucher scheme?
The Ministry of Justice is currently providing contributions of up to £500 per family to resolve issues relating to children following parental separation. The mediation sessions are provided by Family Mediation Council Accredited (FMCA) mediators. The aim of the scheme is to enable separated parents to access regulated family mediation and receive the support they need to make the best possible arrangements for their children.
What is family mediation?
Family mediation is a process in which an independent, professionally trained mediator helps parents work out arrangements for children and finances following separation. Mediation can also be helpful when previous child arrangements need to change, particularly as children grow up.
Who is eligible for a mediation voucher?
A couple who are considering using mediation to resolve their family issue need to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) with an accredited mediator. The cost of this session is not covered by the voucher. The mediator will assess the issues that the couple is seeking to resolve to see if they are suitable for mediation and if they meet the eligibility requirements for the voucher scheme. The following cases are eligible for a mediation voucher:
- a dispute or application regarding a child
- a dispute or application regarding family financial matters which also involves a dispute or application relating to a child
How is the voucher claimed?
If the couple decide to proceed with mediation, and are eligible for the voucher, the mediator will apply for the voucher funding. The money is paid directly to the mediator once the mediation sessions have concluded. There is no physical voucher.
Will the voucher pay for all the mediation sessions?
The voucher is intended to be a contribution towards the cost of mediation. The rates charged by mediators vary and the number of sessions required will depend on the specific requirements of each couple. If the fees incurred exceed the value of the voucher, the difference will need to be paid to the mediator.
How can LSL Family Law help?
LSL Family Law’s Linda Lamb is an accredited mediator with the Law Society and the Family Mediation Council. Linda is also qualified to provide child inclusive mediation. Linda has signed up to the voucher scheme and will let you know if you are eligible and if there are vouchers available. If you would like to know more about the voucher scheme and how mediation might be able to resolve your family issue, please see our family mediation page or call us on 01273 041011.
Useful links
www.gov.uk/guidance/family-mediation-voucher-scheme
https://www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/mediation-vouchers/
