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Family Mediation

At Cheshire Pathway Mediation, we provide expert family mediation services tailored to support individuals and families navigating the complexities of relationship breakdowns. Whether you're separating from a spouse, cohabitee, same-sex partner, or facing disputes involving grandparents, parents, or siblings, we’re here to help you find constructive, lasting solutions. If your case is regarding children, then we can offer the £500 government voucher scheme, which would cover £500 towards the cost of mediation sessions.​ We offer an online MIAM appointment within 48 hours of booking, or even sooner. We are registered with the Family Mediation Council and members of the Family Mediation Association.

Family Portrait
Family with Tablet
Family
Family Love Gesture
Family at Home

Helping families find clarity, calm, and common ground, even in the most difficult times.

Compassionate, Qualified Family Mediation

Our mediator is highly qualified and experienced, with a strong legal and human rights background. Qualifications include:

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  • Civil, Commercial and International Mediation Training

  • Specialist Family Mediation Training

  • Master’s Degree in International Human Rights Law

  • Specialist training in domestic abuse safeguarding and screening

  • Work with CARA – an award-winning early intervention initiative for domestic abuse offenders issued with Conditional Cautions

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We are experienced in dealing with sensitive family dynamics, including situations involving domestic abuse, and can ensure mediation is conducted in a safe, structured and supportive environment.

What We Specialise In

We specialise in family disputes arising from relationship breakdowns, including:

  • Arrangements for children – where they live, who they have contact with, how parenting responsibilities are shared

  • Financial settlements – property, savings, pensions, debts, household contents, spousal maintenance

  • Inheritance and probate disputes

  • TOLATA cases (Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996) – resolving disputes about ownership of property between unmarried couples or family members

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Our goal is to help you move forward with clarity and confidence, minimising conflict and promoting mutual understanding.

Inclusive and Tailored Mediation Approaches

We are proud to offer inclusive mediation services that reflect the diverse needs of our clients, including:

  • Culturally sensitive mediation

  • Hybrid mediation – enabling clients to have their legal representatives present during sessions

  • Neurodiverse-friendly mediation

  • Shuttle mediation – where parties are kept in separate rooms and the mediator moves between them to support safe communication

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We recognise the importance of tailoring our approach to suit your unique situation and needs.

What Happens in a Joint Meeting?

If both parties agree to proceed, mediation typically moves to a joint session. During this meeting:

  • Both parties will have a chance to express their concerns in a structured and respectful environment

  • The mediator will guide discussions and help you explore options

  • You will work towards mutually agreeable solutions, particularly around children, finances, or property

  • If needed, agreements can be recorded in a Memorandum of Understanding

Joint meetings can be held face-to-face, online, or in a shuttle format if preferred.

Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing

We have a special interest in mental health, understanding how emotional wellbeing can impact communication, decision-making, and the overall mediation process. Our approach is trauma-informed, empathetic, and patient – ensuring all participants feel heard, respected, and supported throughout.

Why Choose Us?

  • Legally informed, specialist mediator

  • Accredited training in family and domestic abuse mediation

  • Expertise in complex cases including TOLATA and inheritance disputes

  • Inclusive, non-judgemental approach

  • Safe, supportive environment

  • Flexible online and in-person sessions available

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Ready to Talk?

If you're going through a family breakdown or dispute, family mediation can help you avoid court, reduce stress, and create workable solutions that benefit everyone involved. Contact us today to book your MIAM or learn more about how we can support you.

FAQS What is a MIAM? A MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) is the initial meeting with a mediator where you can discuss your situation. The mediator will assess whether mediation is appropriate and safe for your case. It’s also a legal requirement before you can apply to the family court, in most circumstances. Is family mediation legally binding? The outcome of mediation is not automatically legally binding. However, any agreements can be made legally binding through a solicitor or court application. If you're reaching financial agreements, we recommend converting the outcome into a Consent Order through the courts. How long does family mediation take? The number of sessions depends on the complexity of your situation. Some issues may be resolved in one or two sessions, while more complex cases (e.g. involving finances, domestic abuse, or TOLATA disputes) may require additional time. What happens if the other person doesn’t want to mediate? Mediation is voluntary, but both parties are expected to attend a MIAM before going to court. If the other party refuses mediation or doesn't attend the MIAM, you may still be able to apply to court with evidence that you tried to mediate.

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