Midlands Dove Mediation Welcomes New Government Mediation Voucher Scheme
Today, the Government has made an announcement that it is investing £1m in family mediation, in order to support families to resolve issues relating to children.
Under the scheme, the Ministry of Justice will provide contributions of up to £500 per family, to resolve issues relating to children following parental separation. Mediation will be provided by Family Mediation Council Accredited (FMCA) mediators and the fund will reduce the costs of mediation for at least 2000 families.
John Taylor, Chair of the Family Mediation Council 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.’
Family mediation is a process in which an independent, professionally trained mediator helps parents work out arrangements for children and finances following separation. Mediation can also be helpful when previous child arrangements need to change, particularly as children grow up.
Family mediator Elizabeth Bilton FMCA at Midlands Dove Mediation – part of Elliot Mather LLP – said: “We have an experienced team of specialist and Accredited Lawyer Mediators who have expertise in resolving family disputes using the process of Family Mediation. This latest announcement from the Government is welcomed by all of us at Midlands Dove. Family Mediation is proven to be an effective and time sensitive way for each family to explore different options and work out what arrangements are best for their Family. This investment from the Government will allow mediation to be more accessible to those families who require it.”
Further information about the scheme, aimed at families who may benefit, will be published here from 10 am on Friday 26 March 2021: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/family-mediation-voucher-scheme
