Mediation
Featured inRelationships England and Wales
BACP
The Counselling Directory
Resolve Conflict, Your Way
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Stay in Control: You and the other party decide the outcome, not a court
Be Heard: We facilitate a space where you can express your views without the conversation turning into an argument.
Save Time & Stress: Mediation is generally much faster, less stressful and less expensive than traditional legal routes.
Expert Standards: Our service is delivered in full accordance with Family Mediation Council standards.
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We assist families, couples, and community members in settling practical matters:
Children
Living arrangements and schedules.
Finances
Handling money and ongoing support.
Property
Deciding what happens to your home.
Community
Issues involving housing, inheritance, or neighbours. -
1. The MIAM: You’ll start with a Mediation Information Assessment Meeting (45 mins) to see if this is the right fit.
2. The Sessions: Most people reach a full agreement in about four sessions (90–120 mins each).
3. Finalizing: We provide a document detailing your agreements, which you can then take to a solicitor to make legally binding.
Note: Mediation is focused on solving practical problems. If you are looking for emotional support or relationship therapy, please ask about our separate Counselling Services. -
Is mediation the same as counselling?
No. While RAFT offers counselling, mediation is specifically focused on solving practical problems rather than repairing a relationship or providing marriage guidance.
How long does the process take?
Every situation is unique, but here is a general timeline:
· Initial MIAM: Usually lasts 45 minutes.
· Mediation Sessions: Typically last between 90 minutes and 2 hours.
· Total Sessions: Most people reach a full agreement in about four sessions.
Do I still need a lawyer?
It is always a good idea to know your legal rights. While we help you reach an agreement, you will need a solicitor at the end of the process to make that agreement legally binding. At the conclusion of our sessions, we provide a document detailing everything you’ve agreed upon for your legal advisor to review.
What happens if we can’t reach an agreement?
Most mediations are successful. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, you still maintain the right to use solicitors or take the matter to court. -
We offer competitive pricing (note: we do not accept mediation vouchers).
Why choose RAFT?
Experienced Providers
Delivering specialist relationship counselling since 1958. Formerly a federated Relate charity, RAFT is a current member of the Relationships England and Wales Network
Confidential Support
RAFT are a trusted provider of specialist counselling. We pride ourselves on providing a high quality, confidential service that you can trust. As an Organisational Member, we adhere to the BACP Ethical Framework.
Individual and Relationship therapy
Unlike most providers, as a former Relate charity, RAFT specialises in both individual and systemic relationship therapy, providing holistic insight into your situation.
Accessible
RAFT strive to provide an accessible service to reduce barriers to support such as finance, communication and disability. We offer online services from the comfort of your own home.

