Family Mediation Week 2026
An annual awareness campaign highlighting family mediation as a constructive alternative to court proceedings for separating families across England & Wales.
When is Family Mediation Week?
26–30 January 2026
Family Mediation Week takes place annually in January, bringing together mediators, legal professionals, and support organisations to raise awareness of family mediation.
What is Family Mediation Week?
Family Mediation Week is an annual awareness campaign coordinated by the Family Mediation Council (FMC). It aims to inform the public about how family mediation can help separating couples and families resolve disputes without going to court.
During the week, mediators, solicitors, and family support organisations across England and Wales come together to share information, offer events, and highlight the benefits of choosing mediation.
The campaign is particularly valuable for people who may not know that mediation exists, or who have misconceptions about what it involves.
What happens during the week?
Family Mediation Week features a variety of activities designed to educate and inform the public:
- Free information sessions and webinars hosted by mediation services
- Media coverage highlighting real-life mediation success stories
- Social media campaigns to spread awareness
- Mediators offering free consultations or reduced-rate MIAMs
- Educational resources and guides shared publicly
Why family mediation matters
Family mediation offers a way for separating couples and families to reach agreements together, with the help of an impartial mediator. Compared to court proceedings, mediation can be:
Less adversarial
Focuses on cooperation rather than conflict, helping preserve relationships.
More affordable
Often significantly less expensive than lengthy court proceedings.
Faster resolution
Agreements can often be reached in weeks rather than months or years.
Better for children
Reduces conflict and puts children's needs at the centre of discussions.
Learn more about what family mediation involves or explore how mediation compares to court.
How to get involved
Whether you're going through separation yourself or want to help spread the word, there are several ways to participate in Family Mediation Week:
- Learn about mediation — explore our guides to understand how mediation works
- Share information — help others discover that mediation is an option
- Attend an event — look out for free webinars and information sessions
- Book a MIAM — if relevant to your situation, take the first step
Official resources
Official information and event listings from the Family Mediation Council.
You can also explore our own resources to learn more aboutwhat a MIAM is,how mediation works, orwhat mediation costs.
Common questions
When is Family Mediation Week?
Family Mediation Week takes place annually in January, coordinated by the Family Mediation Council. In 2026, it runs from 26–30 January.
What is the purpose of Family Mediation Week?
The campaign aims to raise public awareness of family mediation as a constructive alternative to court proceedings for separating families across England and Wales.
How can I get involved in Family Mediation Week?
You can learn about mediation, share information with others, attend free webinars and information sessions, or book a MIAM if relevant to your situation.
Ready to take the next step?
If you're considering mediation or need to attend a MIAM, you can book an appointment online with a qualified mediator.
Book a MIAMProvided by Digital MIAM — fully online, court-compliant appointments.
Family Mediation Week is about raising awareness that there are options beyond court. Whatever your situation, you're not alone — and support is available.