Who pays for mediation costs in the UK?

A common question we are asked at Online Mediation is "who pays for family mediation?" Usually, both parents are expected to share the cost of mediation. Costs are usually split equally between participants. There is lots of help if you cannot afford to pay the full cost however.

Do both parents pay for mediation?

Both parents usually pay a family mediator for their expert help in resolving conflict. The kinds of dispute a family mediator solves are child arrangements, finance disputes, divorce arrangements, and other issues following family separation. If you aren't sure if your situation is suitable for family mediation contact us. We'll provide free information and guidance, without pressuring you into mediation.

What do I do if I can't afford mediation?

Check if you qualify for Legal Aid. The Gov website has an eligibility tool you can use:

https://www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid

You might qualify for Legal Aid if you are on certain benefits, have a low income, and have limited savings and assets.

Online Mediation doesn't provide Legal Aid funding, so please search online for 'legal aid family mediation' or use the Gov website to find help. Legal Aid usually covers all your mediation costs.

What if I don't qualify for Legal Aid?

There is still help available for family mediation costs. The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme provides everyone with £500 for family mediation about children. It is not dependent on your income, and is straightforward to access. You still need to pay for your first individual assessment meeting (MIAM). Your mediator then obtains the £500 Voucher for you. If you have any questions, do contact us.

Free Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM)

At Online Mediation, we currently provide free Child Inclusive Mediation (CIM). Child Inclusive Mediation is where a specially trained mediator speaks with children to make them feel heard. The mediator provides an update to parents at a joint mediation session. See more information on our prices here. CIM does of course need to be assessed as appropriate and is voluntary.

How expensive is family mediation?

You can see all our prices clearly set out here. The first cost is £95, for the individual meeting between you and a mediator (often called a 'MIAM' session). After that, if you are discussing children, there may be no further costs, due to the Family Mediation Voucher funding. If you are only discussing property or finances, or the voucher has been used up, our rate is £120 per hour, per person. We don't charge for things like emails and admin. If you have any questions please contact us.

Who pays for mediation in the UK?

Both parents usually contribute at least £95 for the first individual meeting. Thanks to the Mediation Voucher Scheme, there may be no further cost.

Family Mediation prices vary between providers. If you are comfortable with using an online service like ours, the cost will usually be lower. If you prepare well for meetings, and are focused on working with the mediator to find a solution, you will make best use of the time available.

What is the £500 mediation voucher?

This is a government-funded scheme to make family mediation affordable to more separating families. It is a non-means tested grant, and the mediator takes care of the admin around the scheme for you. It is not repayable, and covers joint mediation sessions where you are sorting out arrangements for children.

Is mediation cheaper than a solicitor?

Family mediators are usually cheaper than solicitors, as you are sharing the cost, rather than having one solicitor each. Most people get some independent legal advice alongside mediation, for example before committing to any final agreement. Solicitors are the right option in some circumstances, for example where mediation is not suitable.

Solicitors and mediators alike will encourage you to find an agreement outside of court, if you can, and if it is safe. Going through court, where not necessary, can be very expensive, stressful, and take months or years.

How do I access family mediation?

Online Mediation is an industry leader in FMC Accredited specialist family mediation. We are happy to answer any questions you have before using our service. Our contact details are here.

This blog content was correct as of February 2026, but prices, processes and options can change so speak to us for current information. Any legal information provided is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. If you require legal advice, please contact a suitably qualified solicitor.