Helpful organisations, support services and guidance for families navigating separation, divorce and mediation. You are not alone.
Going through separation or family conflict can feel overwhelming. These trusted organisations offer free advice, emotional support, legal guidance and practical help. Many operate nationally and some specialise in supporting LGBTQ+ families, single parents and those experiencing domestic abuse.
The official regulatory body for family mediators in England and Wales. Use their directory to find an accredited mediator near you and verify credentials.
Visit websiteOfficial government guidance on making child arrangements, the MIAM process, and how to apply for the £500 family mediation voucher.
Visit websiteOne of the UK's largest family mediation charities. Offers mediation across England and Wales with a focus on affordable, accessible services.
Visit websiteA community of family justice professionals committed to resolving issues constructively. Their website has guides on separation, divorce, children and finances.
Visit websiteFree, confidential advice on separation, divorce, child maintenance, housing and finances. Available online, by phone and in person.
Visit websiteGovernment service to help separated parents arrange child maintenance payments when you cannot agree privately. Can calculate, collect and enforce payments.
Visit websiteThe UK's largest provider of relationship support. Offers counselling for couples, families and individuals, plus mediation and online support services.
Visit websiteThe leading charity for single parent families. Expert advice on benefits, child maintenance, housing and employment. Free webchat and online community.
Visit websiteWhatever you're going through, Samaritans are there to listen 24/7, 365 days a year. Completely confidential and free to call.
Visit websiteSupport for anyone struggling with life. Offers a helpline, webchat and resources specifically for men, but open to everyone.
Visit websiteMental health charity providing advice, support and information for anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Local Mind centres across England and Wales.
Visit websiteFree, confidential 24/7 helpline run by Refuge. Support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse, including refuge accommodation.
Visit websiteConfidential helpline for men experiencing domestic abuse from a partner, ex-partner or family member. Emotional support, practical advice and signposting.
Visit websiteSpecialist support for LGBT+ people experiencing domestic abuse. Offers emotional and practical support, including safety planning and housing advice.
Visit websiteHousing and homelessness charity. Advice on keeping your home, finding somewhere to live, and your rights during separation.
Visit websiteUK's leading LGBTQ+ rights charity. Resources on family formation, parenting rights, and their LGBTQ+ Family Formation Guide for people navigating parenthood.
Visit websiteManchester-based charity delivering a wide range of services to LGBTQ+ communities. Includes support for families, parenting groups and wellbeing services.
Visit websiteA safe space for anyone to discuss anything, including sexuality, gender identity, sexual health and emotional wellbeing. Confidential and non-judgemental.
Visit websiteSupport group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents and their families. Offers advice, social events and a network of families across the UK.
Visit websiteA practical guide for LGBTQ+ people navigating the paths to parenthood, covering adoption, fostering, surrogacy, co-parenting and donor conception.
Read the guideSupport for parents, families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Helps families understand and support their LGBTQ+ loved ones.
Visit websiteFree guide to creating a parenting plan with your ex-partner. Covers living arrangements, holidays, education, health and communication.
Visit websitePractical advice and signposting for separated parents. Covers everything from the first days of separation to making long-term arrangements work.
Visit websiteFree, confidential support for children and young people under 19. If your child is struggling with the separation, Childline is there for them.
Visit websiteSupport for grandparents and wider family members who are caring for children or seeking contact after family separation.
Visit websiteFree benefits calculator and grant search. Check what financial support you might be entitled to after separation, including Universal Credit and housing support.
Visit websiteCheck if you qualify for free legal aid to cover mediation, family court costs and solicitor advice. Legal aid is available for those on a low income.
Check eligibilityFree, confidential debt advice. If separation has left you struggling financially, StepChange can help you create a realistic plan to get back on track.
Visit websiteIf you cannot find what you are looking for, Becky is happy to point you in the right direction. No obligation -- just honest advice.
Call 07891 098 369 Email Becky