Family mediation and funded outreach

Court Guide · Sources checked 13 September 2026

Where to start

Mediation is a process for discussing a possible agreement with an independent mediator. It is different from receiving advice from your own solicitor. Suitability, safety, funding and the service offered need to be checked for each person.

Find the relevant type of mediation

Family, workplace and civil disputes use different services. The listings here come from the Legal Aid Agency’s family mediation outreach table. They identify provider and outreach locations, not every mediator in England and Wales.

Check registration and practical access

Use the Family Mediation Council’s finder to check the mediator and contact details. Ask whether meetings are in person or online, whether separate sessions are possible and what arrangements are available for disability, language or safety needs. Do not travel to an outreach location without confirmation.

Ask about all stages and funding

Ask what an initial assessment, each session and any resulting documents cost. Legal aid and voucher funding have different conditions; being listed does not establish your eligibility. Confirm what is funded, what is excluded and whether either person has to pay.

Prepare for an informed discussion

Make a list of the issues, the information needed and the questions you want answered. Tell the service privately about safety concerns. A mediator assesses suitability; mediation is not appropriate in every situation. Take independent legal advice on the effect of any proposed agreement.

Find your area, provider or topic

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Family mediation and funded outreach

Where to start

Find the relevant type of mediation

Check registration and practical access

Ask about all stages and funding

Prepare for an informed discussion

Find your area, provider or topic

Official guidance and related resources

Family mediation and funded outreach

Where to start

Find the relevant type of mediation

Check registration and practical access

Ask about all stages and funding

Prepare for an informed discussion

Find your area, provider or topic

Official guidance and related resources