Mandatory mediation would mean separating couples are required to attempt mediation before they can proceed through the family courts. The aim is to reduce the burden on an overstretched system and encourage families to resolve disputes more collaboratively.
The proposal, which the Ministry of Justice has been reviewing since 2023, is rooted in a wider effort to reform how families interact with the legal system. In many cases, court should be a last resort, not the first step.
Why the Shift Towards Mediation?
The call for reform is not just about efficiency. Mediation is proven to be faster, more affordable and less adversarial than going to court. It gives couples the opportunity to make decisions about their finances, property and children in a supportive environment, rather than having outcomes imposed by a judge.
Delays in the court system mean that cases can drag on for months, even years, which is emotionally and financially draining. Mediation, by contrast, often resolves matters in just a few sessions.
Mediation Remains Voluntary – For Now
While mandatory mediation is being actively discussed, no law has been passed to enforce it. For now, families still have a choice – and many are choosing mediation on their own terms.
At EB & Co. Mediation, we believe in the power of that choice. Voluntary mediation gives you ownership of the process and sets the tone for respectful negotiation. Whether you’re working through child arrangements or financial agreements, mediation supports you to reach practical, workable solutions without court intervention.
How You Can Take the First Step
If you are thinking about separation or divorce, you do not have to wait for court reforms to take action. Mediation is already available and accessible – including support through the Family Mediation Voucher Scheme for eligible families.
Choosing mediation first can save time, reduce conflict and help you retain control over your family’s future. As more families recognise its benefits, and as government interest in mandatory reform grows, mediation is increasingly being seen not as a fallback but as the first step.
Need help navigating separation?
Contact EB & Co. Mediation today to book a confidential Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) or to discuss how mediation can support your family.
0 Comments