What Is a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) – and Why Does It Matter?
Episode 2 – The EB & Co. Mediation Podcast
In episode two of the EB & Co. Mediation Podcast, Emma Bradford and Charlotte Chambers take a closer look at the MIAM – the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting – which is the first step in the family mediation process. They unpack what the MIAM is really for, why it matters, and how it helps families explore whether mediation is right for them.
Emma and Charlotte reflect on the emotional state many people are in when they first attend a MIAM and explain how they gently assess each person’s situation – including any safety concerns or support needs – to ensure mediation is appropriate and safe. They discuss the meaning of “suitability,” the timing of mediation, and why each person’s readiness and understanding matters.
This episode also explores common questions like: Do I have to attend a MIAM? What does a mediator need to know? What happens if my ex doesn’t know why we’re mediating? With warmth and honesty, the hosts share how the process is always designed to keep clients safe, supported, and empowered to make decisions that are right for them.
Whether you’re considering mediation, supporting someone else, or simply curious about how it all works, this episode offers helpful insights into one of the most important first steps in the journey.
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
Understanding the MIAM
In this episode, Emma and Charlotte delve into the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) – the first formal step in the mediation process. They explain what MIAM stands for, why the term is often misunderstood, and what actually happens in the meeting. While the acronym may sound daunting, the meeting itself is a supportive and informative space designed to help each person understand whether mediation is suitable for their situation.
Information and Assessment – What It Really Means
Emma and Charlotte explore the two key components of a MIAM: information and assessment. They explain how mediators offer tailored information about how mediation works, and why that’s often more helpful than simply reading online. The assessment element works both ways – clients assess whether mediation feels like the right path for them, and mediators evaluate whether it is appropriate and safe to proceed.
Emotional Readiness and Timing
The discussion turns to the emotional state of clients attending a MIAM. Emma and Charlotte talk about the importance of timing – highlighting that some people may not yet be emotionally ready to take part in the mediation process. They describe how mediators assess whether someone is able to make self-determined decisions and may suggest delaying mediation until the client feels more stable and prepared.
Exploring Suitability for Mediation
Suitability is a broad concept in mediation, and Emma and Charlotte talk through its different layers. This includes legal suitability, emotional preparedness, and practical understanding of issues like finances. They also explore common dynamics, such as one partner having historically managed the finances, and how this imbalance can be addressed within mediation.
Domestic Abuse and Safeguarding
The episode also covers how mediators assess for any history of domestic abuse or controlling behaviour, and how this impacts the mediation process. Emma and Charlotte stress that domestic abuse doesn’t always mean mediation is ruled out – but it does mean extra care must be taken. They describe the various ways mediation can be adapted to ensure client safety, including using separate rooms, remote meetings, and staggered arrival times.
Confidentiality and the Role of the Mediator
Emma and Charlotte clarify how confidentiality is maintained during and after MIAMs. They reassure listeners that mediators do not share information between parties and describe how notes are held securely. They also highlight the importance of neutrality, especially when one party is unsure why they’ve been invited to mediation.
Why the MIAM Matters
To close, Emma and Charlotte reflect on why the MIAM is such a vital part of the mediation process. It provides a safe starting point, tailored information, and an opportunity to assess when and how mediation could help. It’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about meeting people where they are and helping them move forward with clarity and confidence.
We’re interested in people. We’re interested in people’s lives. And we’re interested in trying to make a bad situation not quite as bad as it is.
