Ministry of Justice Announces They Are Increasing the Fund for Family Mediation Vouchers by £1.3 Million
On the 26th March 2021 the Ministry of Justice and UK Government announced that they were investing one million pounds (£1m) into assisting separating or separated families, to resolve disputes in relation to child arrangements, through Mediation.
This funding is being made available through a scheme introduced and implemented by the Family Mediation Council (on behalf of the Ministry of Justice), and could be available to families, regardless of their financial circumstances. The scheme is however, only available to issues in relation to children. It is therefore, not available to assist with difficulties which solely relate to property and finances, following a separation.
The scheme since its introduction has assisted 4,400 separated families, and research shows that the first 2000 families who benefited from the scheme, resulted in 77% of these families reaching partial or fully agreed arrangements, without involving the Courts.
Due to the success of this scheme, yesterday the Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab on behalf of the Government has announced that they have extended the fund to a total of £3.3 Million, this is an additional £1.3 Million. This was confirmed today by the Justice Minister Lord Wolfson, at the launch of Family Mediation week.
It is hoped that the additional funding into the scheme, will assist 2440 separated families.
The Family Mediation Council Voucher Scheme is available to contribute £500 towards the costs of Family Mediation for separated families, wishing to resolve difficulties they maybe having in relation to the arrangements for their children, regardless of their income and financial circumstances.
If you would like to find out more about the Family Mediation Council (FMC) Voucher Scheme please visit www.familymediationcouncil.org.uk or www.gov.uk/guidance/family-mediation-voucher-scheme
Alternatively, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced co-coordinators at enquiries@midlandsdove.co.uk or on 01623706020
