Family Mediation in 2025: What Separating Families Across England & Wales Need to Know

Introduction

As more families across England & Wales seek alternatives to court, family mediation continues to evolve as a trusted, structured, and compassionate way to resolve disputes. The Family Mediation Council’s latest publication, The State of Family Mediation 2025, offers valuable insights into how mediation is changing and what that means for separating couples and co-parents today.

Mediation Is Growing But Still Misunderstood

The report confirms that family mediation is expanding, with more professionals entering the field and more families accessing services. Yet many people still don’t realise that mediation is a voluntary, confidential process that helps couples resolve issues around children, finances, and property without the stress, cost, and delays of court.

If you’re separating or divorcing, mediation offers a safe space for structured conversations, guided by a trained professional who helps you focus on what matters most.

Legal Aid Is Still Available for Those Who Qualify

A key takeaway from the report is that legal aid for family mediation remains available for those who meet the eligibility criteria. It can cover the cost of your initial Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) and subsequent sessions. However, many families miss out simply because they’re unaware of this support.

Please note: Holistic Family Mediation & Coaching does not offer legal aid-funded mediation. If you are seeking a mediator who provides legal aid, you can search the Family Mediation Council’s national register here: Find a Legal Aid Mediator.

Child-Inclusive Mediation Is Gaining Momentum

Children often feel caught in the middle when parents separate. Child-inclusive mediation (CIM) gives them a chance to be heard in a safe, age-appropriate way. The report highlights growing interest in CIM, with more mediators receiving specialist training to offer this service.

If you’re a parent, ask your mediator whether CIM is available and how it could support your child’s emotional wellbeing during this transition.

Choose an Accredited Mediator You Can Trust

The Family Mediation Council continues to uphold high standards for mediators, including accreditation, supervision, and ongoing training. Choosing an accredited mediator ensures you’re working with someone who is qualified, accountable, and committed to best practice.

Mediation Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

Every family is different. The report acknowledges that mediation must adapt to diverse needs including cultural considerations, domestic abuse concerns, and complex financial arrangements. Holistic, trauma-informed approaches are increasingly valued, helping families feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout the process.

If you’re unsure whether mediation is right for you, a confidential MIAM can help you explore your options and decide what’s best for your situation.

Conclusion

The 2025 report reinforces that family mediation is more relevant than ever. It offers separating families a chance to resolve issues with dignity, clarity, and compassion, without the adversarial nature of court - it has a proven success rate of 69%. Whether you’re exploring mediation for the first time or seeking a child-inclusive approach, understanding these trends can help you take the next step with confidence.

Ready to Talk?

If you’re considering family mediation, I offer accredited, holistic support tailored to meet your needs.

• Visit our FAQs page to learn how Holistic Family Mediation & Coaching can support you and your family through separation or divorce.

• Book a Free Discovery Call via our services page to explore your options.

• For personalised coaching support, complete the Coaching Referral Form. You can choose pay-as-you-go sessions or purchase a package of six sessions for the price of five.

• Ready to begin mediation? Complete the Self-Referral Form and book your initial MIAM online. We’ll then reach out to your ex-partner (unless requested otherwise) to encourage their participation highlighting the benefits of family mediation: lower costs, staying in control, and achieving a quicker resolution compared to court proceedings.