Mediation for Child Arrangements
When parents separate, one of the hardest parts can be agreeing arrangements for children.
Mediation can help parents have structured, child-focused discussions and explore practical arrangements without needing a judge to decide — where it is safe and appropriate.
What do people mean by "child arrangements"?
When people talk about "child arrangements", they commonly mean practical decisions about:
- Where children live — which home(s) they will spend their time in
- Time with each parent — how children spend time with both parents
- Communication and handovers — how routines and transitions work
- Holidays and special occasions — how important dates are shared
- Decision-making — how key decisions about education and health are made
How mediation can help
Mediation provides a structured space where parents can discuss practical arrangements with the support of a trained, neutral mediator. Common topics include:
Weekly routines
Planning handovers and day-to-day care
Holiday schedules
Sharing school holidays and special occasions
Communication
Setting expectations for how parents stay in touch
Managing disagreements
Finding ways to resolve future disputes calmly
The mediator is neutral and does not take sides or make decisions. Their role is to help both parents communicate and explore options.
A note about safety
Mediation is not suitable for every situation. If there are concerns about safety, domestic abuse, coercive control, child safety, or serious substance misuse, mediation may not be appropriate and specialist support may be needed.
Can children be involved?
In some cases, children may be offered a safe way to share their views — where this is assessed as appropriate. This is known as child-inclusive mediation.
This is handled carefully by qualified mediators and is not about children choosing between parents. It simply provides a way for children's perspectives to be heard in an age-appropriate manner.
What if we can't agree?
If parents find it difficult to agree, there are usually options to consider:
Structured discussion
Using a parenting plan to work through key topics calmly
Consider mediation
A MIAM can help you understand whether mediation may be suitable
Court as a last resort
Where agreement still isn't possible, court may be considered
The C100 form (applying to court about children)
The C100 is the form commonly used to apply to the family court about child arrangements and certain related orders.
People often encounter this form when they feel stuck, when communication has broken down, or when they need a formal decision from a court.
In most cases, a MIAM is expected before applying to court, unless an exemption applies.
Download the official C100 form
The official C100 form is available to download from GOV.UK.
External link to GOV.UK.
Help filling in the C100 form (Mckenzie Friend guide)
If you want a step-by-step walkthrough, the guide below may be helpful.
Please note: This is a third-party resource and is not produced by GOV.UK or this website. Always use your judgement and consider professional advice if needed.
Common questions
Can mediation decide child arrangements?
A mediator does not make decisions. Instead, mediation helps parents discuss and reach their own agreements about where children live and how time is shared.
Do children attend mediation sessions?
Usually not, but child-inclusive mediation allows children's views to be heard through a separate session with a trained mediator, if appropriate.
What if we can't agree in mediation?
If agreement cannot be reached, you can apply to court using a C100 form. The mediator will issue a certificate confirming mediation was attempted.
When you're ready
If you would like structured support to discuss child arrangements, a MIAM can help you understand whether mediation may be suitable.
Book a MIAM onlineDelivered by qualified family mediators in England & Wales.
Agreeing child arrangements can feel daunting, but many parents find that with the right support, they can reach workable solutions that work for their children.