Family and Workplace Mediation in Staffordshire

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Family Mediation is a confidential and voluntary process that helps separating or divorcing couples, or other family members, resolve disputes in a non-confrontational way, avoiding the stress and cost of court proceedings.

In Staffordshire, numerous accredited mediation services operate, serving key areas like Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Tamworth, and Cannock. Mediators in the area are trained to help families find practical and fair solutions tailored to their specific circumstances.

Family mediation is designed to facilitate agreements on sensitive issues following a family breakdown, including:

• Arrangements for Children (Child Contact): Deciding where children live, when they spend time with each parent, and how contact takes place.
• Financial Separation: Resolving disputes over the division of assets, including the family home, savings, investments, and pensions.
• Property Matters: Determining the sale or transfer of property.
• Child Maintenance: Agreeing on financial support arrangements.
• Specific Issues: Assisting grandparents with contact disputes or other family disagreements.

Before applying to the Family Court for a Children Order or a Financial Order, the law requires that individuals first attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM).

• Purpose: The MIAM is a private meeting with an accredited mediator (either alone or with your ex-partner) to explain what mediation involves, assess whether it is suitable for your situation, and discuss other options for resolving your dispute.
• Court Requirement: If mediation is not pursued, the mediator will issue a certificate that must be presented to the court. There are limited exemptions, such as cases involving domestic abuse or child protection issues.

Mediation is typically quicker and more cost-effective than litigation. In Staffordshire, you may be able to access financial assistance:

1. Legal Aid: Many accredited mediation services in Staffordshire are able to offer Legal Aid. If you qualify for Legal Aid (based on a means test), your MIAM and all subsequent mediation sessions will be free of charge. If only one party qualifies, the other party may receive their MIAM and first mediation session for free.
2. Government Mediation Voucher Scheme: This Ministry of Justice scheme provides a contribution of up to £500 towards the costs of mediation for cases involving discussions about child arrangements. Accredited mediators can check your eligibility and manage the voucher on your behalf.

To ensure a professional service, it is recommended to use a mediator accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC). Local services often have offices or arrange appointments in:

• Stafford
• Stoke-on-Trent
• Tamworth
• Cannock

Many services now also offer virtual mediation (via platforms like Zoom), allowing you to attend sessions remotely from your own home, which is often more convenient and flexible.

Area covered

Burton upon Trent Newcastle-under-Lyme Tamworth Lichfield Stoke-on-Trent Cannock The Potteries Uttoxeter Stafford

Amity Staffordshire

Staffordshire is a geographically diverse county in the West Midlands, combining industrial heritage, significant market towns, and key natural areas like Cannock Chase and the edge of the Peak District. Its population is centred on the northern City of Stoke-on-Trent, a separate unitary authority and the global historic centre of the ceramics industry, often referred to as "The Potteries." Other major population hubs include the county town of Stafford, the brewing capital of Burton upon Trent, the engineering and manufacturing base around Tamworth and Newcastle-under-Lyme, and the cathedral City of Lichfield, all contributing to a modern economy that heavily relies on advanced manufacturing (JCB is headquartered here), logistics due to its central location, and digital services. 

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