The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme represents a significant government initiative designed to help families resolve disputes outside of court. As a family mediation specialist, I've seen firsthand how this scheme has made professional mediation services more accessible to families across England and Wales.
Understanding the Mediation Voucher Scheme
Launched by the Ministry of Justice in March 2021, this £1 million scheme has since been expanded with additional funding due to its success. The scheme provides eligible families with up to £500 towards their mediation costs, encouraging more people to consider mediation before pursuing lengthy and expensive court proceedings.
Why Was the Scheme Established?
The introduction of the voucher scheme came in response to several key factors:
Court Backlog
- The COVID-19 pandemic created significant delays in the family court system
- Cases were taking longer to reach resolution
- Families were facing extended periods of uncertainty
Cost Barriers
- Many families found mediation costs prohibitive
- Legal aid restrictions left many unable to access support
- Financial pressures were pushing people towards representing themselves in court
Promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Recognition that court isn't always the best venue for family disputes
- Need to encourage more collaborative approaches to conflict resolution
- Desire to prioritise children's wellbeing through faster dispute resolution
Who Can Apply for a Mediation Voucher?
The scheme is available to people with:
Eligible Disputes About:
- Child arrangements
- Division of finances following separation
- Property and financial matters
- Questions about parental responsibility
- Special guardianship
- Contact with children in care
- Adoption
Key Eligibility Criteria:
- The dispute must involve children
- At least one party must attend a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting)
- Neither party can be eligible for Legal Aid
- The case must not have already started mediation
How Does the Voucher Scheme Work?
Application Process
1. Contact an FMC-accredited mediator
2. Attend a MIAM
3. The mediator will check eligibility
4. If eligible, the mediator applies for the voucher on your behalf
5. Once approved, £500 is deducted from your mediation costs
Important Points to Note:
- Vouchers are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis
- The £500 contribution is paid directly to the mediator
- You may still need to pay additional costs if mediation exceeds £500
- The scheme is separate from Legal Aid
Benefits of Using the Mediation Voucher Scheme
Financial Benefits
- Significant reduction in mediation costs
- No need to repay the voucher amount
- Potential to avoid expensive court proceedings
- Better value for money compared to legal fees
Practical Advantages
- Faster resolution of disputes
- More flexible than court proceedings
- Greater control over outcomes
- Less adversarial approach
Long-term Benefits
- Better co-parenting relationships
- More sustainable agreements
- Improved communication skills
- Better outcomes for children
Success Rates and Statistics
Recent Ministry of Justice data shows:
- Over 8,400 vouchers issued since scheme inception
- 77% of cases reached whole or partial agreement
- Significant reduction in court applications
- High satisfaction rates among participants
How to Access the Scheme Through Ark Mediation
At Ark Mediation, we can help you:
1. Determine your eligibility for the scheme
2. Complete necessary paperwork
3. Apply for the voucher on your behalf
4. Begin mediation promptly once approved
Finding More Information
For additional details about the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme, visit:
- Ministry of Justice website: www.gov.uk/guidance/family-mediation-voucher-scheme
- Family Mediation Council: www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk/mediation-voucher-scheme/
- Legal Aid Agency: www.gov.uk/legal-aid
Take the Next Step
If you're considering family mediation and want to know if you qualify for the voucher scheme, Ark Mediation is here to help. We offer a free 10-minute consultation to discuss your situation and explain how the voucher scheme could benefit you.
Contact us today on 0330 043 6360 to:
- Check your eligibility for the voucher scheme
- Learn more about the mediation process
- Book your initial consultation
- Start your journey towards resolution
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme represents an excellent opportunity to access professional mediation services at a reduced cost. Don't miss out on this valuable support - get in touch today to learn how we can help you move forward positively.