About UKMS

The UK’s most accessible family mediation service

Why we exist

UKMS was created to make mediation simple, affordable and accessible to everyone.

Too many people going through divorce or separation find that the services meant to help them make things harder than they need to be – slow to access, unclear on cost, and full of legal language that assumes knowledge most people don’t have. There’s a wider problem too: many people don’t know mediation is an option. They go straight to a solicitor, where the process often becomes adversarial and expensive before it needs to be.

We created UKMS to change that: clear language, transparent pricing, and fast access to experienced, accredited mediators.

We believe everyone deserves access to a mediator. Everyone can mediate.

Our commitment

The belief that everyone can mediate shapes everything we do. It means:

We make mediation accessible

We make family mediation easy to understand and access. Our focus is on helping families find practical, lasting solutions, without the stress and cost of court.

We’re here when you need us

Getting the right information at the right time makes a real difference. If you have a question – before, during or after the process – call us, email us, WhatsApp us.

We’re upfront about cost and the process

Our pricing is clear and fixed – no hourly surprises or hidden costs. Accessible pricing and exceptional service aren’t a trade-off.

We work with you, whatever your situation

Mediation exists for families in conflict – that’s precisely when it matters most. We don’t turn people away for having a difficult case.

“Everyone deserves a respectful, straightforward mediation process – one that reduces conflict, protects children’s wellbeing, and avoids unnecessary legal battles.”

Derek Mason , Founder & Director , UKMS

Why choose UKMS?

Choosing the right mediator matters. You need someone qualified and regulated – but you also need someone you feel confident talking to.

Here’s what sets UKMS apart:

Fastest access to mediation in the UK

We don’t take weeks to arrange an initial MIAM or make you fill out forms. We can often get you in for a MIAM (Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting) within 24 hours, and we don’t charge extra for same-day appointments or shuttle mediation (where you and the other party are in separate rooms).

Genuinely transparent pricing

Our rates are fixed and clearly stated. If you’re eligible for the government’s Family Mediation Voucher (up to £500), we’ll help you access it. Court forms and Child Arrangements documents are included at no additional charge.

Support throughout the process

Some clients work with us from their first MIAM right through to a legally binding consent order via our Agreed service. Others use mediation to reach interim arrangements, or just want a MIAM before proceeding to court. Whatever your situation, we’ll help you navigate the next steps.

Fully qualified and accredited

All UKMS mediators are accredited by the Family Mediation Council (FMC), the professional body that sets and monitors standards for family mediation across the UK. This means rigorous training, ongoing professional development, and adherence to a strict code of practice.

Genuine nationwide reach

Unlike most mediation providers, who operate only in England and Wales, UKMS covers England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. And while our reach is national, our service is personal. You’re not dealing with a call centre; you’re working with a dedicated team who knows your situation.

Did you know?

80 %

of our clients avoid court altogether

Up to £ 30000

£10,000-£30,000 is the average cost of solicitor’s fees for a contested divorce.
A fully mediated divorce with UKMS costs £1,099

4 weeks

The average time it takes to reach an agreement through UKMS mediation

What UKMS clients say

When people first come to us, they’re often anxious, uncertain, or unsure whether mediation can work for their situation. By the end of the process, most tell us they’re relieved – that it was resolved more quickly and affordably than they’d expected, and they finally have clarity about the future.

Many also tell us they came away with a much clearer understanding of the legal process. That’s deliberate. We believe that informed clients make better decisions – so we don’t keep you in the dark about how things work or what your options are.


I highly recommend Derek and his team. They were all extremely helpful and talked me through everything step by step so I felt comfortable. Derek got back to me quickly and made the whole process a lot easier than expected. Thank you!

H. Plummer

Very honest, caring and experience mediation service always ready to listen to your needs and help by counselling and leading you to best choice of decision after mediation. Thank you Mr Derek and team.

K. Asare

I highly recommend The UK Mediation Service, Derek was very understanding throughout the entire process and was always there to help answer any queries. He made the entire process very seamless and stress-free.

P. Gajanan

Derek handled my case, and I cannot speak more highly of him. Was able to diffuse extremely frustrating situations during the mediation session and was a true professional throughout.

T. Adesanya

Ready to talk?

If you have questions about mediation, want to understand if it’s right for your situation, or you’re ready to arrange your first appointment – our team is here to help.

We offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you get started.

Talk to us now