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Shuttle mediation: reach agreement without being in the same room

In shuttle mediation, you and your ex-partner stay in separate video calls or rooms throughout. The mediator moves between you, sharing proposals and helping each of you respond. It suits high-conflict situations, or anyone who finds it too hard to face the other person. Sessions last two hours and cost £290 per person.

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Someone joining a video session from home

When shuttle mediation helps

  • Communication has broken down, or conversations quickly become arguments.
  • One of you feels anxious, intimidated or unable to speak freely in front of the other.
  • There is a significant imbalance of confidence or power between you.
  • You simply don't want to see or hear the other person right now.

How a shuttle session works

  1. Each of you joins your own video call (or room) at the same time.
  2. The mediator spends time with each of you in turn, understanding your priorities and concerns.
  3. Proposals and responses are carried between you, in a calm and neutral way.
  4. Points of agreement are recorded as you go, and written up at the end.

Cost

A two-hour shuttle session by video costs £290 per person (£330 out of hours). A typical financial mediation in shuttle format, including your MIAM, three sessions and documents, comes to about £1,240 per person. No VAT is charged.

Frequently asked questions

Is shuttle mediation as effective as joint mediation?

It can be. It often takes a little longer because each proposal is carried between you, but it allows real progress where face-to-face discussion would not be possible or productive. It can still lead to a full written agreement.

Why does it cost more than joint mediation?

Shuttle sessions are two hours rather than 90 minutes, and the mediator works with each of you separately throughout, carrying proposals between you. The hourly basis is £145 per person rather than £130, reflecting that extra work.

Is shuttle mediation suitable if there has been domestic abuse?

Sometimes, but not always. Every case is assessed privately at the MIAM, and you will never be put in a room or call with the other person. Where mediation is not safe, we will explain your options. See safeguarding.

Can we switch between shuttle and joint sessions?

Yes. Some families start in shuttle and move to joint sessions as trust builds, or use shuttle only for the hardest topics. Your mediator will check what feels right before each session, and you can change your mind at any time.

Related services

Book your free 10-minute call

Tell us a little about your situation and a mediator will call you back, usually the same working day.

  1. Send us a few details
  2. A mediator calls you back at a time that suits you
  3. No obligation, and nothing is shared with your ex-partner

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