We are delighted to share that Lord Ponsonby, the Minister responsible for family justice, has announced the extension of the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme for an additional year, running through to March 2026.
A Proven Success in Supporting Families
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme has been instrumental in helping families reach important agreements without resorting to court proceedings. Stephen Burke, Chair of the FMC, praised the extension, stating:
“Analysis of the family mediation voucher scheme has shown it to be successful in helping people make important agreements without the need to go to court. The FMC welcomes its extension, not least as this will continue to ensure that families on low incomes can access mediation to help them resolve conflict.”
The Minister also reaffirmed his and the government’s commitment to family mediation and emphasized ongoing efforts to secure multi-year funding for the scheme. He highlighted the importance of data collected from the scheme, which showcases not only the success of family mediation but also the scheme’s value to families and public funds.
What This Means for Families
The extension of the scheme ensures that more families—including those with lower incomes—can access affordable mediation services to support them in discussing and reaching agreement in relation to arrangements for their children. By helping families resolve Children disputes without going to court, the scheme continues to promote faster, less stressful, and more cost-effective resolutions for separating couples.
Promoting Awareness During Family Mediation Week
The news of this extension comes at a pivotal time as Family Mediation Week begins on Monday, 27 January 2025. Mediators now have a renewed opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of family mediation and encourage families to take advantage of the voucher scheme.
How the Voucher Scheme Works
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme provides eligible families with vouchers worth up to £500 to offset the cost of mediation relating to issues arising in respect of the arrangements for their children. This initiative has proven to be a valuable resource for families seeking amicable resolutions while avoiding the time and expense of court proceedings. We will apply for the voucher for you and arrange for all paperwork to do this to be prepared for your signature at the first mediation meeting.
If you’re considering family mediation, now is the perfect time to explore how this scheme can support you.
We are also offering discounted MIAMs (Mediation Information and Assessment Meetings) booked during Family Mediation Week, running from 27th January – 31st January 2025, now charged at only £180 plus VAT.
Learn more about how mediation and the voucher scheme can help your family reach lasting agreements by calling us on 020 8866 1820 or visit our website: Mediation – Collins & Hoy Solicitors.