Family Mediation in 2026:
What's Changed & What It Costs

If you're separating in 2026, three recent changes affect how much the process costs and how the family justice system expects you to resolve arrangements for children, finances and property. This guide summarises what's new in plain English — and what it means for your family.

1. The £500 Mediation Voucher Is Confirmed for 2026/27

The government has continued its family mediation voucher scheme for another year. If your dispute includes arrangements for children, you may be eligible for £500 towards your joint mediation sessions. The voucher is not means-tested, it is paid directly to the mediator, and your mediator applies for it on your behalf — there is no separate application for you to complete.

You typically qualify if:

• Your mediation includes matters concerning children
• You have not received the voucher before
• You have attended (or are attending) a MIAM

At Becky Taylor Mediation, we apply for the voucher on your behalf during your MIAM, and the fund and fees are fully discussed with you before any joint sessions begin.

2. Court Fees Have Gone Up — Again

As of 13 July 2026, the fee to apply to court for a child arrangements order (Form C100) is £270 — and that is just the entry fee. Contested court proceedings typically cost £10,000–£15,000+ per person and take 12–18 months from application to final order.

3. Mediation Is No Longer Just "Encouraged" — It's Expected

Since April 2024, attending a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) has been a legal requirement before most family court applications, with exemptions such as cases involving domestic abuse. In 2026 the Family Mediation Council and the Justice Select Committee have both publicly urged the government to go further — strengthening mediation and protecting legal aid provision — signalling that non-court resolution is the clear direction of travel for family law.

In practice, this means that if you do end up in court, the judge will expect to see evidence that you have genuinely considered mediation first. A MIAM is how you show that — and it is also where you find out whether mediation is actually suitable for your situation.

What This Means for You

If you're facing decisions about children, finances or property after separation, the system is now structured to make mediation the first port of call — and with the voucher confirmed for another year, it has rarely been more affordable. The first step is always the same:

• Book a free 30-minute call to talk through your situation — confidential, no obligation
• Attend a MIAM to confirm mediation is suitable (required before court in most cases)
• Begin joint sessions — most families need 3–5, with the £500 voucher applied where eligible
• Receive a written agreement ready for your solicitor to make legally binding