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Call us on 0330 043 6360. Book a FREE consultation to get started and learn about how we can resolve conflicts effectively Contact us Use the form below to request a call back. We aim to respond within 24 hours of an enquiry (business days). We offer mediation both in-person (in the South East of England) and over video call for nationwide clients. For our locations, please see mediation hub information further down. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Email contact@arkmediation.co.uk Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit Our mediation hubs South East mediation hubs. AYLESBURY Gatehouse Way HP19 8DB MARLOW Buckinghamshire SL7 1EY HIGH WYCOMBE The Hub Union Baptist Church Easton St HP11 1NJ PRINCES RISBOROUGH Lacey Green Main Road HP27 OQT BERKHAMSTED 10-12 Clarence Road Depot HP4 3AS TRING 9 Akeman Street HP23 6AA CHESHAM Chartridge Lane HP5 2RG WENDOVER Wendover Health Centre HP22 6LD GREAT MISSENDEN Missenden Abbey London Road HP16 0BD CHALFONT ST GILES Town Field Lane HP8 4QG Contact Us FAQs How can I get in touch with Ark Mediation? You can contact us by calling 0330 043 6360 or by emailing contact@arkmediation.co.uk. Alternatively, you can fill out the contact form on our Contact Us page Where are your family mediation hubs located? Our mediation hubs are located across the South East of England, including Aylesbury, Marlow, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough, Berkhamsted, Tring, Chesham, Wendover, Great Missenden, and Chalfont St Giles. We cover other parts of England via remote and virtual mediation Do you offer virtual mediation sessions? Yes, we offer mediation sessions via video call for clients nationwide How quickly can I expect a response after contacting Ark Mediation? We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours on business days What are your operating hours? Our mediators can offer mediation sessions outside of standard business hours to accommodate your schedule

Family mediation services in England. Expert help with divorce mediation, children & financial disputes. Free consultation - Ark Mediation Family Mediation Services Our team of Accredited Mediators has been helping families and clients reach amicable agreements since 2019. Do I Need a MIAM? Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Ark Mediation is a member of The Family Mediation Project, UK. 24hr MIAM Child-Inclusive Mediation Complex Asset Settlement Family Mediation Voucher Scheme Why use a family mediation service? Did you know that family mediation services in the UK boasts a success rate of approximately 77%, with most cases reaching full or partial agreements. At ark mediation , we resolve disputes without the stress and expense of court. We support people going through challenges such as divorce , financial settlements , child arrangements , and workplace disputes . Our experienced mediators are fully trained, qualified, and affiliated with organisations such as the Family Mediation Council (FMC), ensuring a professional and compassionate approach to every case. Free Consultation Our Services Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that helps separating or divorcing couples resolve disputes without going to court. A trained mediator acts as a neutral third party, guiding discussions to help both parties reach fair agreements on issues such as finances, property, and child arrangements. Mediation is often quicker, less stressful, and more cost-effective than legal proceedings. It also promotes open communication, helping families find practical solutions that work for everyone involved - especially children. In the UK, mediation is encouraged by the courts, and in most cases, attending an initial meeting called the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) is required before taking family disputes to court. If you're struggling to agree financial settlements as part of a separation, child parenting plans, spousal maintenance or even a consent order to finalise your divorce, then family mediation is the pathway for you. Our comprehensive service and specialist team are here to help. Family Mediation We recognise each family situation is unique and sometimes you may require specialised support. Our full range of services include the following; STANDARD SERVICES Initial Mediation (MIAM) Child-Inclusive Mediation Joint and Shuttle Mediation Mediation Court Forms Mediation Documents Post-Mediation Follow-Ups SPECIALIST SERVICES Fast Track MIAM (24 hours) Culturally Diverse Families Neurodiverse Family Dynamics Complex Asset Mediation Cross Border Family Mediation Post-Mediation Legal Forms Learn More About Our Family Mediation >> Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? Ask us about Court Forms Court forms (Form A and C100) are included FREE when you book a MIAM with us. Prices start at £130 Read More Ask about the £500 Family Voucher Scheme A government initiative that provides a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of family mediation. Read More Other Mediation Services Hybrid Mediation An advanced model that allows clients to have their legal representative present during family mediation sessions, enabling legal advice in real-time and facilitating quicker, more informed decision-making. Read More Culturally Inclusive Mediation Culturally diverse and culturally aware family mediation respects and integrates different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values, ensuring a fair, inclusive, and sensitive approach to resolving family disputes. Read More Workplace Mediation Restore workplace balance and professional conduct. Avoid disputes and conflict that leads to costly tribunal processes and a negative environment for other employees. Read More What our clients say about us Discover how ark mediation has helped families and clients in times of change. “I didn't know where to start and why I needed to mediate, until I spoke to Romina. She immediately put my mind at ease from the very first call and talked me through all the options I had. I'd definitely say mediation is a better route than solicitors - which is where my ex-wife and I were stuck for some time. Thank you for your help!" Jamie K, Rugby (UK) "The team at Ark are amazing mediators. My situation was complex because of my religious background. Most solicitors I spoke to didn't understand this dynamic and I struggled to find the right kind of support. Working with a team like ark was absolutely the right thing for me and my family. They navigated this difference with sensitivity, ultimately getting us to a good place. Thank you, ark! Najda Kadir, St John's Wood “We were headed down the court route, which is something I couldn't really afford because I didn't have the same income as my ex. I found Romina's details on the national family mediation website and after speaking to her I realised mediation was the best way to go. She managed to get my ex-husband around the table with me and we worked on our issues like adults. Thank you so much.” Lily Kirk, Chesham Free Consultation Family Mediation FAQs How does family mediation work? Family mediation has three main stages. 1. Initial Meeting, also known as a MIAM where each party meets the mediator separately to assess suitability; 2. Joint Mediation Sessions, when both parties discuss their issues with the mediator's guidance; 3. Agreement Drafting, takes place when agreements are reach. This summary document outlines the agreed terms and can be made into a legally binding document through a solicitor Do I have to attend family mediation? Mediation is voluntary, but in most cases, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court for child or financial disputes, unless an exemption applies (e.g., domestic abuse) Is mediation legally binding? No, mediation agreements are not legally binding. However, once both parties agree, a solicitor can draft a Consent Order, which the court can approve to make it legally binding. Ark Mediation offer a full service package solution where we can facilitate drafting of legal documents What issues can be discussed in family mediation? Mediation covers various family issues, including: 1. Child arrangements (custody, visitation, schooling, holidays) 2. Financial settlements (division of property, assets, pensions) 3. Spousal or child maintenance 4. Communication strategies for co-parenting 5. Any other family disputes related to separation or divorce How long does mediation take? It depends on the complexity of the case. Simple cases may take 1-2 sessions, while more complex disputes (e.g., financial settlements) can require 3-5 sessions or more What happens if we can’t reach an agreement? If mediation fails, the mediator will issue a ‘mediator’s certificate’ (FM1 form), allowing either party to apply to court. However, courts often prefer parties to have attempted mediation before legal proceedings Can I bring my solicitor to mediation? Typically, mediation is conducted without solicitors present, however Ark Mediation offer an advanced model called Hybrid Mediation where clients can attend with their legal representative. This allows for real time legal advice and faster decision making How much does family mediation cost? Costs vary based on your particular circumstances but typically, your initial meeting (MIAM) and any subsequent joint mediation sessions start from £130 per person. Our end-to-end packages including mediation and formalising your agreement through a solicitor start at £799 What if my ex-partner refuses mediation? Mediation is voluntary, and if your ex refuses to attend, you can still proceed with a court application. The mediator will issue a form confirming the attempt to mediate Can mediation help with high-conflict situations? Yes, mediators are trained to manage conflict and ensure a safe discussion environment. In shuttle mediation, parties are in separate rooms, and the mediator moves between them to facilitate negotiation What are the benefits of mediation over court? 1. Faster & cheaper than court 2. Less adversarial – encourages cooperation 3. More control – parties make decisions, not a judge 4. Confidential – discussions remain private 5. Better for children – encourages positive co-parenting Free Consultation

Discover our transparent pricing for family mediation, MIAMs, and dispute resolution. Affordable fees with clear, upfront pricing. A cost-effective alternative to lengthy legal battles Family Mediation fees We operate a simple and transparent pricing structure with prices for standard services starting from as little as £110.00. 1. MIAM (Mediation and Information Assessment Meeting) Session duration up to 60 minutes. Service Standard MIAM, by video (including court form) Urgent MIAM, by video (including court form) Out of Office hours MIAM, by video (including court form) Standard MIAM, in-person (including court form) Description 45-60minute session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) Session and court form within 24hrs (45-60minute session) 45-60minute session time, out of office hours (5.30pm to 9pm) 45-60minute session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) Price (£) £130.00 per person £160.00 per person £150.00 per person £175.00 per person + venue hire (please enquire) 2. JOINT MEDIATION SESSIONS Standard joint mediation sessions typically last up to 90 minutes. If shuttle mediation is needed, sessions are usually longer, with a minimum duration of 2 hours (120mins), see section 3. Service Joint Mediation, by video Joint Mediation, in-person Out of Hours Joint Mediation, by video Description 90minute session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) 90minute session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) 90minute session time, out of office hours (5.30pm to 9pm) Price (£) £130.00 per person, per hour* £160.00 per person, per hour + venue hire (please enquire) £150.00 per person, per hour * Please note that the hourly rate is applied to the total session duration based on the mediation type. For example, a “Joint Mediation (video)” session requires a minimum duration of 90 minutes, resulting in a total cost of £195.00 per person. 3. SHUTTLE MEDIATION SESSIONS Shuttle mediation sessions have a minimum duration of 2 hours. In a shuttle mediation format, the mediator communicates separately with each person. The mediator moves between you, sharing information and proposals, rather than you speaking directly to each other. This can take place online or in person, depending on circumstances. Service Shuttle Mediation, by video Shuttle Mediation, in-person Out of Hours Shuttle Mediation, by video Description 2 hour session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) 2 hour session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) 2 hour session time, out of office hours (5.30pm to 9pm) Price (£) £145.00 per person, per hour** £190.00 per person, per hour + venue hire (please enquire) £165.00 per person, per hour ** Please note that the hourly rate is applied to the total session duration based on the mediation type. For example, a “Shuttle Mediation (video)” session requires a minimum duration of 2 hours, resulting in a total cost of £290.00 per person. 4. CHILD MEDIATION (CIM) SESSIONS Child focussed mediation sessions are capped at 60 minutes. Service Child Mediation (CIM), by video CIM Parent Feedback Session, by video Description 60minute session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) Up to 45minute session time, in office hours (9am to 5.30pm) Price (£) £200.00 (all children in family, over 1 session)*** £130.00 per person, per parent *** Typically, divided per parent e.g. £100.00 payable each. 5. MEDIATION DOCUMENTS AND ADDITIONAL SERVICES Documentation and additional support services. If you require a specific document type, not listed below, please contact us for more information. Document Type Court Form - C100, FormA etc. Child Parenting Plan / Child Agreement Open Financial Statement (OFS) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Description Typically issued after a MIAM Document detailing what both parties have agreed on child arrangements Financial disclosure audit Documented agreement at the end of mediation Price (£) Included in price of MIAM (see above) £110.00 per person £110.00 per person £130.00 per person Last pricing updated 16th April, 2026. IMPORTANT NOTES: 1. We do not charge VAT 2. We do not offer Legal Aid 3. Cancellation of a session by client, within 24 hours of schedule appointment will result in a £30.00 cancellation fee 4. If a client fails to attend a scheduled session, this will result in a new session payment being required Specialist Family Mediation Pricing Fixed Fee Legal Package 1. Complex Asset Financial Mediation Please enquire about pricing. 2. Neurodiverse Family Dynamics Mediation Please enquire about pricing. Fixed Fee Legal Package Our fixed fee legal package offers you the benefit of an end-to-end service including mediation and the legal aspects of formalising your separation, settlement and arrangements. The cost of this service includes the following: 1. A MIAM for both parties 2. The divorce application fee (set by the government) 3. Independent legal advice from an ark mediation partner law firm, for a fixed cost of £850.00 4. Mediation to agree terms. This can go to court for approval 5. £850 per consent order. Depending on the complexity of your order the maximum you will pay is £5,000 Workplace Mediation 1. Workplace Mediation Services: • Half-Day Mediation: Typically lasting up to 4 hours, the fees range from £500 to £750 • Full-Day Mediation: Spanning approximately 7 hours, standard rates are between £1,000 and £1,500 2. Conflict Resolution Training: • One-Day Training Courses: These sessions are designed to equip employees with strategies to manage and resolve workplace conflicts. Prices typically range from £295 to £550 per participant

Discover how mediation can help you avoid court, reduce stress, and reach fairer agreements on family, relationship, and financial issues Do I Need a MIAM? Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting What is family mediation 43% of marriages in the UK end in divorce so it’s important to recognise the changing landscape of divorce. One such change is the trend around Mediation, also known as ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution). The primary goal of mediation is to make divorce proceedings more efficient, reduce conflict, and to support couples in finding long term solutions. Family mediators are trained to work with people in situations where the relationship or marriage has broken down. Our team come from professional backgrounds including law, psychology and various therapy-related professions, and are highly skilled at navigating these types of high-conflict situations. Unlike the court system, you stay in control at every step of the journey. How does family mediation work At ark mediation, your mediation journey follows four key stages: 1. The Initial meeting , and a requirement by the courts, is known as a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) 2. Mediation Sessions , offered in various formats to suit your needs e.g. shuttle mediation in high-conflict situations, child inclusive mediation where kids are involved, and other formats 3. Outcome , resulting in documents drafted by your mediator to confirm what you agree upon. These can be made legally binding 4. Post-mediation six month check in with your mediator to see how things are going What are the benefits of family mediation Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit Take control and have more say on the outcome you desire. Unlike the legal route, where a court judge will enforce decisions upon you, mediation can help empower you to take the right decisions Mediators can often eliminate the conflict between you and your partner by providing pragmatic and impartial guidance . This is especially important where children are concerned and can help both sets of parents keep a level head Unlike the legal court system where decisions can be binding, mediation offers flexibility where agreements can be adapted based on your changing circumstances, for example as your children get older and have different needs Mediation can be quicker, significantly more cost effective and offers a better route to resolving disagreements compared to long drawn-out court battles Read our blog article here for more helpful information and advice, or contact us now for a free consultation. How long does family mediation take The length of family mediation depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement. On average, most cases are resolved within 2 to 4 sessions, with each session lasting around 60 to 90 minutes. Simpler cases, such as basic child arrangements, may be settled in just one or two sessions, while more complex financial disputes can take several sessions. Compared to court proceedings, mediation is significantly faster, often concluding within a few weeks to a couple of months, rather than months or years in court. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you are going through a divorce, separation, family asset dispute or need support on aspects of child arrangements, call our team today. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? Learn more about a MIAM The first step in your mediation journey is a MIAM, otherwise known as the initial meeting. Read More What is the £500 Family Voucher Scheme? A government initiative that provides a financial contribution of up to £500 towards the cost of family mediation. Read More Learn more about Neurodiverse Family Dynamics For families with specific needs including neurodiverse dynamics. Read More Learn about our fixed Legal Packages A comprehensive end-to-end package including mediation and post-mediation legal sufeguarding. Read More Family Mediation FAQs How does family mediation work? Family mediation has three main stages. 1. Initial Meeting, also known as a MIAM where each party meets the mediator separately to assess suitability; 2. Joint Mediation Sessions, when both parties discuss their issues with the mediator's guidance; 3. Agreement Drafting, takes place when agreements are reach. This summary document outlines the agreed terms and can be made into a legally binding document through a solicitor Do I have to attend family mediation? Mediation is voluntary, but in most cases, you must attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court for child or financial disputes, unless an exemption applies (e.g., domestic abuse) Is mediation legally binding? No, mediation agreements are not legally binding. However, once both parties agree, a solicitor can draft a Consent Order, which the court can approve to make it legally binding. Ark Mediation offer a full service package solution where we can facilitate drafting of legal documents What issues can be discussed in family mediation? Mediation covers various family issues, including: 1. Child arrangements (custody, visitation, schooling, holidays) 2. Financial settlements (division of property, assets, pensions) 3. Spousal or child maintenance 4. Communication strategies for co-parenting 5. Any other family disputes related to separation or divorce How long does mediation take? It depends on the complexity of the case. Simple cases may take 1-2 sessions, while more complex disputes (e.g., financial settlements) can require 3-5 sessions or more What happens if we can’t reach an agreement? If mediation fails, the mediator will issue a ‘mediator’s certificate’ (FM1 form), allowing either party to apply to court. However, courts often prefer parties to have attempted mediation before legal proceedings Can I bring my solicitor to mediation? Typically, mediation is conducted without solicitors present, however Ark Mediation offer an advanced model called Hybrid Mediation where clients can attend with their legal representative. This allows for real time legal advice and faster decision making How much does family mediation cost? Costs vary based on your particularcircumstances but typically, your initial meeting (MIAM) and any subsequent joint mediation sessions start from £130 per person. Our end-to-end packages including mediation and formalising your agreement through a solicitor start at £799 What if my ex-partner refuses mediation? Mediation is voluntary, and if your ex refuses to attend, you can still proceed with a court application. The mediator will issue a form confirming the attempt to mediate Can mediation help with high-conflict situations? Yes, mediators are trained to manage conflict and ensure a safe discussion environment. In shuttle mediation, parties are in separate rooms, and the mediator moves between them to facilitate negotiation What are the benefits of mediation over court? 1. Faster & cheaper than court 2. Less adversarial – encourages cooperation 3. More control – parties make decisions, not a judge 4. Confidential – discussions remain private 5. Better for children – encourages positive co-parenting

Family mediation for individuals and families with over £1million in property assets or multiple properties. Avoid complexities by working with our trained mediators to settle your financial & property matters What is complex asset mediation Helping High-Value Families Resolve Financial Disputes Amicably. Designed for individuals and families with over £1 million in property assets or multiple properties. High-value financial disputes can be challenging, but our expert mediators help you navigate them with clarity, fairness, and discretion. How does complex asset mediation work Complex asset mediation is a structured process that helps separating couples and families divide significant financial assets without resorting to costly and lengthy court proceedings. This service is ideal for cases involving: - Multiple residential properties - High-value real estate portfolios - Overseas property holdings - Investment properties and rental income - Trusts, pensions, and business assets Why choose mediation over litigation Confidential & Private – avoid the public nature of court disputes. Cost-Effective – mediation is significantly less expensive than prolonged legal battles. Tailored Solutions – agreements are designed around your unique financial situation. Faster Resolution – avoid court delays and resolve disputes in weeks instead of years. Reduced Stress & Conflict – a cooperative approach ensures better long-term relationships, especially when children are involved. How does the mediation process work 1. Initial Consultation – we assess your financial situation and discuss your goals. 2. Disclosure & Valuation – full financial transparency is essential; all assets are disclosed and professionally valued if necessary. 3. Negotiation Sessions – we facilitate structured discussions to find equitable solutions. 4. Agreement Drafting – once consensus is reached, we provide a legally recognised Memorandum of Understanding. 5. Legal Finalisation – a solicitor can convert the agreement into a legally binding Consent Order. Who can benefit from complex asset mediation - High-net-worth individuals going through divorce or separation. - Couples with multiple real estate assets needing fair division. - Families managing inherited or shared property portfolios. - Business owners concerned about protecting commercial assets. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you have over £1 million in property assets or multiple properties and need assistance in navigating a complex financial separation, our expert mediators can help. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit

Get essential mediation documens and forms with Ark Mediation. From MIAM forms, C100 and Form A to mediation agreements, we provide all documents you require What are mediation forms and documents The table below provides an overview of typical forms you can expect to encounter on your mediation journey. MIAM Forms FM1 Form (Mediation Certificate) issued when mediation is deemed unsuitable C100 Form issued when applying to court for child arrangements Mediation Outcome Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) issued as a non-legally binding document summarising your agreement. This can be converted into a Consent Order Open Financial Statement (OFS) issued as a factual summary of both parties' financial disclosure Form A issued when applying to court for a financial remedy order e.g. division of assets etc. Other Mediation Documents Parenting Plan - a structured agreement outlining how parents share responsibilities and make decisions about their children Shuttle Mediation Agreement - issued if parties choose shuttle mediation Key Takeaways Mediation outcome documents (MoU, OFS) are not legally binding unless converted into a Consent Order Financial cases require an Open Financial Statement (OFS) to disclose assets transparently Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit MEDIATION FORM FAQs Do I need a mediation certificate to apply to court? Yes, for most child arrangement and financial cases, you must attend a MIAM first. If mediation is not suitable or the other party refuses to engage, the mediator will issue an FM1 certificate allowing you to proceed to court Can mediation forms be used in court? Yes, documents like the FM1 form (for court applications) and the Open Financial Statement (OFS) (for financial disclosures) can be used in court if required. However, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) itself is not a legal document unless turned into a Consent Order

£500 Mediation Voucher Scheme available through Ark Mediation when you appoint us to handle family mediation matters Do I Need a MIAM? Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting What is the family mediation voucher scheme The family mediation voucher scheme was launched during the pandemic to help ease demand on the family courts. The aim is to incentivise families to resolve child arrangement disputes outside of court through mediation, where safe to do so. The intention is to support families in reaching faster agreements in a less adversarial form of dispute resolution than through in court. It also helps to reduce demand on the family courts, ensuring more of the courts time can be spent on cases that need to be there, such as those where there are safeguarding concerns. The scheme is currently only available for families with child arrangement disputes. You can read more about it on the UK gov.uk site, here . How does the family mediation voucher scheme work Only mediators authorised by the Family Mediation Council (FMC) are taking part in the voucher scheme. If your case is eligible, your mediator will apply for the voucher on your behalf. Once this is approved, it will contribute towards the cost of mediation sessions. How do I know am eligible for a mediation voucher On attendance of a MIAM, one of our mediators will assess the issues you seek to resolve to see if they are suitable for mediation and meet the eligibility requirements for the voucher scheme. The scheme is currently administered by the Family Mediation Council (FMC). It offers families a one-off contribution of up to £500 (per family) towards their mediation costs with FMC accredited mediators. 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 Note: Access to the voucher scheme is not based on a family’s income or finances and those who are eligible for Legal Aid are not excluded from the scheme. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you are going through a divorce, separation, family asset dispute or need support on aspects of child arrangements, call our team today. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit VOUCHER SCHEME FAQs Does the voucher cover all mediation costs? The voucher provides up to £500 per case, but this may not cover all sessions. If the total cost of mediation exceeds £500, the parties will need to cover the remaining balance Can both parties receive a separate voucher? No, the £500 voucher is issued per case, not per person. It contributes to the total cost of mediation sessions for both parties Can I use the voucher for a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM)? No, the voucher does not cover the MIAM (initial mediation assessment meeting). It is only applicable to joint mediation sessions What if my mediation costs less than £500? The voucher will only cover the actual cost incurred. If your mediation sessions cost less than £500, you will not receive the remaining balance as cash or credit Is the voucher available for financial disputes? The scheme only covers cases related to child arrangements. If financial matters are involved, they must be part of a broader dispute that also concerns children to qualify

Our trained team at Ark Mediation create a safe space for children to express their views, ensuring their needs are heard. Discover the benefits of child-inclusive mediation Learn more about our specialised Child Mediation for Neurodiverse Family Dynamics Read More What is Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM) Child Inclusive Mediation provides children a safe forum to share their concerns and worries without feeling like they are siding with one particular parent. Separation can be particularly difficult for young children and study's have shown it can leave a lasting impact well into adulthood. It is imperative parents consider what is best for their children and this is where mediation can be highly effective. The mediator can provide valuable guidance on practical implementation of sharing parenting responsibilities in a fair way, which contributes to a more balanced and healthy outcome for the child. Child inclusive mediation is confidential and the mediator will work with your child to agree what information they feel comfortable relaying back to you as their parents, through the mediator. What does child mediation involve Children too harbour concerns about the changes taking place as a result of a separation. It is the mediators role to encourage your child to be able to share what might be bothering them. Once the mediator and child have discussed all relevant aspects of the separation that might impact them, the mediator will convey these concerns to the parents in a mediation session in order to explore ways to make the transition easier on the child whilst meeting the needs of each parent . Why is it beneficial to include Child Mediation in your journey Research shows that consulting children about their views during or following a time of family separation is helpful to them and their mental health. It can be beneficial for a child to talk to a mediator because: A child may not tell a parent what they really think, especially if the child is aware of any conflict between the parents A child may not have an opportunity to talk to both parents at the same time and may be very worried about saying things to one parent rather than giving exactly the same message to both parents at the same time. It is not uncommon for children to say one thing to one parent and something completely different to the other parent In families where emotions are highly charged, children are preoccupied in keeping the peace, and may not feel that have had space or permission to dwell on what their own feelings are. Speaking to the mediator gives children in this situation a chance to think about their own views It gives all children a private space, to be asked how they are and if they have any views to be taken into account. Both parents are given this opportunity when they meet the mediator on their own; children should have this opportunity too A parent is deeply involved in the emotional nurturing and wellbeing for a child and is not in an impartial place to hear or provide feedback of a child’s views. Even with the best will in the world, the parent might not understand or convey the child’s feelings to the other parent or mediator in the way the child would wish The things that the parents are worried about, including their worries about how the child is feeling, may make it more difficult for the child to talk freely about how they are feeling and what they think is important. Start Your Mediation Journey Today If you are going through a divorce or separation, and children are involved, call our team today. Call us on 0330 043 6360 Request a call back & free consultation * First name * Last name * Email Phone number * Service Required Family Mediation Message Submit Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? CHILD MEDIATION FAQs How old does my child have to be to participate in Child Inclusive Mediation? Children must be aged 10 years and over to be consulted as part of the mediation process. The Family Mediation Council's Code of Practice requires that all children aged 10 years and above should be offered the opportunity to have their voice heard directly during the mediation process, if they wish Who can conduct a Child Inclusive Mediation? A trained and qualified mediator should run your Child Inclusive Mediation. Working with children brings a complex dimension to mediation and so it is important your mediator has the expertise and experience to navigate these types of conversations

Discover Ark Mediation's simple 4-step family mediation process. From MIAM to final agreement, learn how we help families resolve disputes effectively What is the family mediation process The law in England now requires all couples to demonstrate they have attempted to resolve separation disputes through mediation. Whilst a mediator cannot issue you your divorce, the mediation process will prepare you with all the necessary documentation to help you avoid the need to attend court and prevent against lengthy drawn out court hearings over issues such as child maintenance, financial settlements etc. At ark mediation we will work closely with you and the other party to ensure a quick, robust and amicable outcome. 1. MIAM - Initial Meeting At ark mediation, your mediation journey follow four key stages: 1. The Initial meeting , and a requirement by the courts, also know as a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) 2. Mediation Sessions , offered in various formats to suit your needs e.g. shuttle mediation in high-conflict situations, child inclusive mediation where kids are involved, and other formats 3. Outcome , resulting in documents drafted by your mediator to confirm what you agree upon. These can be made legally binding 4. Post-mediation six month check in with your mediator to see how things are going 2. Mediation Sessions The mediator brings all parties together in joint sessions where open and respectful communication is encouraged. During these sessions, participants have the opportunity to express their perspectives, interests and needs. The mediator facilitates the conversation, promotes understanding and helps identify areas of agreement and disagreement. We recognise sometimes it is too difficult for individuals seeking mediation to participate in a joint session. Ark mediation can provide shuttle mediation to overcome this. In cases involving children, and where a child needs to be included as part of the mediation process, our team are trained in Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM) and qualified to speak with children aged 10 years and above. Younger children maybe considered on a case-by-case basis. Read more here . Our team are also trained to deal with cases that are circumstances involving 3. Outcome - Agreement & Documentation The mediator assists the parties in generating and evaluating possible solutions. They help participants explore different options, consider the consequences of their decisions and find creative ways to meet their interests and needs. When the parties reach a mutually satisfactory agreement, the mediator assists in documenting the agreement in writing. The agreement may cover various aspects such as parenting plans, division of assets, financial arrangements and any other relevant matters. The agreement can be made legally binding by a qualified solicitor. With a fixed legal package from ark mediation, we can take care of this for you, or you can secure the services of a solicitor of your choosing. 4. Implementation and Six-Month Follow Up After the agreement is reached the parties may need to take steps to implement the agreed-upon terms. The mediator can provide guidance on the necessary actions and support the parties to address any challenges that may arise during the implementation process. It is important to note that Family Mediation is a voluntary process and the mediator remains neutral throughout. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties but instead facilitates their communication and helps them find their own solutions. The goal is to promote understanding, improve communication and foster cooperative relationships within the family. Ark mediation offer all clients a free six-month follow up session. This is an opportunity to make further enhancements to your agreement based on how things are going. Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I Need a MIAM? Mediation Process FAQs How long does the mediation process take? The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issues. A straightforward case may be resolved in one or two sessions, while financial disputes or more complex cases might require three to five sessions. Each session typically lasts 60-90 minutes Is family mediation confidential? Yes, mediation is entirely confidential. Discussions cannot be used as evidence in court, except in cases involving safeguarding concerns, criminal activity, or financial fraud What are the benefits of family mediation over court? 1. Quicker: Mediation takes weeks, while court cases can take months or years 2. Cheaper: Mediation is significantly less expensive than legal proceedings 3. Less stressful: A cooperative process rather than an adversarial legal battle 4. Confidential: Unlike court cases, mediation remains private 5. Better for children: Focuses on reducing conflict and prioritising their well-being

See more information about our Privacy Policy here Privacy Policy 1. Introduction Ark Mediation Ltd (referred to as “we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect personal information in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, which are the relevant laws of England and Wales. Please read this policy carefully to understand our views and practices regarding your personal data. 2. Information We Collect We may collect and process the following information about you: Personal Information: Name, contact details (including address, phone number, and email address), date of birth, and other personal information provided by you. Sensitive Information: Information relating to your family, financial details, and other sensitive data, as relevant to the mediation process. Communication Records: Notes, emails, and other forms of communication between you and Ark Mediation Ltd. Website Usage Data: Information collected through cookies and similar technologies when you use our website (see “Cookies” below). 3. How We Use Your Information We use your personal information to: Provide family mediation and related services. Schedule, conduct, and manage appointments and meetings. Respond to inquiries and provide customer support. Comply with legal obligations and professional standards. Improve our services and understand client needs. 4. Legal Basis for Processing We process your personal data based on the following grounds: Consent: When you have given clear consent for us to process your personal information for specific purposes. Contractual Obligations: To fulfil our contractual duties in providing mediation services. Legal Obligations: Where processing is necessary for compliance with the laws of England and Wales. Legitimate Interests: For our legitimate interests, provided they do not override your fundamental rights. 5. Disclosure of Your Information We may share your personal information with: Third-party Service Providers: Professionals who assist us in providing services, such as administrative support, IT services, or legal advisers. Legal or Regulatory Authorities: As required to comply with legal or regulatory obligations in England and Wales. Your Consent: If you provide explicit consent for us to share information in a specific instance. We ensure that third parties receiving your information protect it in accordance with this privacy policy and applicable data protection laws. 6. Security We are committed to safeguarding your personal data. We employ appropriate technical and organisational measures to prevent unauthorised access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction of your information. 7. Retention of Your Information We retain your personal data only as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes for which it was collected, to meet legal or regulatory requirements, or as otherwise required by law. 8. Your Rights Under the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, you have the following rights regarding your personal data: Access: To request access to your data and obtain a copy. Rectification: To correct any inaccurate or incomplete information. Erasure: To request deletion of your data, subject to certain conditions. Restriction: To restrict the processing of your data in certain situations. Data Portability: To receive your data in a commonly used format. Objection: To object to processing based on legitimate interests. If you wish to exercise any of these rights, please contact us at contact@arkmediation.co.uk . 9. Changes to Our Privacy Policy We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on our website, and, where appropriate, notified to you by email. 10. Contact Us If you have questions about this policy or our data practices, please contact us at: Ark Mediation Ltd 0330 043 6360 contact@arkmediation.co.uk

Take the MIAM questionnaire to find out if you need to book a Mediation meeting. Take the first step today Start Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting Do I need a MIAM? Use our free short questionnaire to help you quickly understand whether Mediation is the right next step. Whether your dispute relates to child arrangements or financial settlements, the MIAM is a first step in understanding what the mediation journey involves and how it compares to a court process. Key Points A MIAM stands for Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting. It is usually required before making a family court application in England and Wales. You attend on your own — it is not a joint meeting with the other person. The appointment typically lasts between 45 minutes and one hour. The mediator is not a judge — they do not make decisions about your case. After the MIAM, the mediator issues a certificate (the FM1 form) that the court requires. In some situations a MIAM is not required — for example, if domestic abuse is involved. Why is a MIAM Required? Since April 2014, the family courts in England and Wales have required most applicants to attend a MIAM before making a court application. This is set out in the Family Procedure Rules. The requirement exists because mediation can often resolve family disputes more quickly, at lower cost, and with less stress than going to court. The MIAM ensures that applicants have at least considered mediation before resorting to litigation. In practice, this means that if you want to apply to a family court — for example, for a child arrangements order, a financial remedy order, or certain other applications — you will usually need a MIAM certificate before the court will accept your application. Key point: The MIAM does not prevent you from going to court. It simply means you have considered mediation first. If mediation is not suitable or the other person refuses to attend, the mediator can still issue your certificate. Start Use our 1-minute 'Do I Need A MIAM?' questionnaire to find out if you need an initial mediation meeting MIAM SURVEY FAQs Is my information kept confidential? Yes. Information you share with us and any personal data is kept in secure storage. We delete questionnaire submissions after 30 days What happens after I complete the form? One of our business team will receive your questionnaire results and we will assess if mediation is suitable for you. If this is the case, we will contact you for a free consultation

Unhappy with our service? Follow our complaints process here Complaints Process Ark Mediation Ltd Complaints Policy 1. Introduction Ark Mediation Ltd is committed to providing high-quality mediation services. We welcome feedback from our clients to help us improve our services. If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of our service, we encourage you to raise your concerns so we can address them appropriately and maintain our standards. 2. Purpose of This Policy This policy outlines how Ark Mediation Ltd will handle complaints, ensuring that they are dealt with in a fair, prompt, and respectful manner. Our goal is to resolve complaints effectively and learn from them to prevent similar issues in the future. 3. Scope This complaints policy applies to all clients, potential clients, and any other individual or organisation interacting with Ark Mediation. It covers complaints related to the services provided by Ark Mediation Ltd, the conduct of our staff, and any issues that may arise during the course of mediation. 4. Making a Complaint If you wish to make a complaint, you may do so in writing, by email, or by phone. Complaints should be directed to our Complaints Officer as follows: Complaints Officer Ark Mediation Ltd Email: contact@arkmediation.co.uk Phone: 0330 043 6360 To help us handle your complaint effectively, please include the following information: • Your name and contact details • A clear description of your complaint, including relevant dates and the names of any staff involved • Any documents or other information you feel are relevant to your complaint 5. Complaints Handling Procedure 1. Acknowledgement We will acknowledge receipt of your complaint within 10 working days. Our Complaints Officer will review your complaint and may contact you for further information if necessary. 2. Investigation We will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of your complaint. This may involve speaking to relevant staff, reviewing records, and gathering any additional information needed to understand the issue. 3. Response Within 20 working days of acknowledging your complaint, we will provide you with a formal response outlining the outcome of our investigation. If further time is required, we will keep you informed of the reasons for the delay and provide a new timeframe. 4. Resolution and Actions If your complaint is upheld, we will take appropriate action to address the issue and prevent it from reoccurring. This may include issuing an apology, providing additional support, or implementing procedural changes. 6. Appeals Process If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint, you may request a review of the decision by contacting us within 10 working days of receiving our response. A senior member of the Ark Mediation Ltd team will re-evaluate your complaint and provide a final response within 15 working days. 7. Confidentiality We treat all complaints with strict confidentiality and handle them in accordance with our data protection policy. Information related to complaints is shared only with those directly involved in addressing the issue. 8. Continuous Improvement Ark Mediation Ltd views complaints as an opportunity to improve our services. We keep records of all complaints and monitor patterns to identify areas for development, ensuring that we consistently provide the best possible service to our clients. 9. Contact Us If you have any questions about this complaints policy or need assistance with making a complaint, please contact us using the details provided above.