Stressful court battles during divorce are no good for anyone. They’re expensive, long-winded and can have a devastating impact on families. There’s also a backlog of cases in the Family Court due to COVID-19, which according to the HM Courts & Tribunals Service may not be cleared until 2023.

To ease the pressure for both divorcing couples and the Family Court, the government has made £1 million available for around 2,000 families to access mediation. These sessions involve a trained mediator helping disputing parties to reach agreements in a safe, neutral setting.

It’s normally a service that couples have to pay for, unless the they have access to legal aid.  But the new scheme will now make a £500 voucher per family available, which for the first time can be accessed without a means test.

Why mediation works

Mediation has long been considered a highly effective alternative to costly and acrimonious court cases, especially for divorce.

It’s known to be a quicker, cheaper way for separating couples to resolve disputes. In fact, the government has said that over 70% of couples had been able to avoid the courtroom through mediation.

With the help of a trained, accredited mediator, the key issues for each family can be calmly discussed. Both parties are listened to, and everyone gets a say. The ultimate aim is to reach compromises and make sound, sensible decisions together as a family.

Mediation is particularly helpful when resolving children’s matters, such as who children will live with following separation. It’s also a great option for couples arguing about financial matters, such as how assets will be divided during divorce.

Commenting on the launch of the new scheme, Family Mediation Council chairperson John Taylor said:

“This government investment in mediation is much welcomed by the Family Mediation Council. It will help separated families agree solutions that are best for their children, taking into account what is going to be important for them as they grow up.

“Family mediation is a proven cost-effective way to resolve differences following separation. This voucher scheme will make it even more accessible, and will help families resolve issues for themselves, without having to go to court.”

Could mediation be a good option for you?

Here at Tracey Miller Family Law, we’re members of Resolution – the organisation committed to a non-confrontational, practical approach to divorce and family issues. Mediation is a big part of this approach, helping families to find the best solutions to suit everyone, without having to go to court.

If you’re going through divorce, our Wirral divorce solicitors will not only offer helpful, trustworthy, jargon-free legal advice. We’ll also help to arrange mediation sessions to resolve disputes or disagreements peacefully, and follow the Resolution Code of Practice to guide you towards decisions that consider the needs of the whole family.

In short, we’ll help you keep your divorce out of court and completed as quickly and amicably as possible. Get in touch for a friendly chat and to find out more.