Family Mediation in Dorset
A Better Way to Resolve Finances and Child Arrangements in Dorset
Private, child-focused family mediation from our Dorchester office or online. A partner branch of Mediate UK.
We Now Offer Legal Aid
If you are eligible for legal aid, all of your mediation could be completely free. And if the other person is not eligible, they still receive their MIAM and first joint mediation session free of charge.
Why Choose Us
Mediation That Puts Your Family First
In Person in Dorchester or Online
Meet at our office in the heart of Dorchester, or online from anywhere.
90% of Clients Reach an Agreement
Proven, structured mediation helping separating couples find fair outcomes.
All Agreements Made Legally Binding
Fixed-fee legal packages available on your agreement through our partner solicitors.
How It Works
Four Clear Steps to an Agreement
1.
Book Your MIAM
Your first meeting is with a mediator on your own, to assess your situation and explain the process.
2.
Invite the Other Person
If mediation is suitable, we contact the other party and invite them to book their own MIAM.
3.
Joint Mediation Sessions
In joint mediation, we work through the issues together in structured, 90-minute sessions.
4.
Clear Written Agreements
We draft your agreement, and can make it legally binding for a fixed fee.
A Better Alternative to Court in Dorset
Most people want to avoid the hassle, delays and cost of court hearings.
✓ A less stressful, faster and more affordable way forward
✓ You stay in control, not a judge
✓ Agreements are flexible, child-focused and future-proof
✓ Sessions available within 48 hours
✓ Much lower cost than solicitors and court
✓ Legally binding outcomes available for a fixed fee
✓ £500 voucher scheme available (not means tested)
✓ Child-focused, impartial and confidential
Our Services
How We Can Help
MIAM: Your First Step
Your first confidential meeting with an accredited family mediator, online within 48 hours or in person at our Dorchester office. £500 voucher available.
Book here →Child Arrangements Mediation
Child-focused mediation to agree routines, communication, holidays and parenting decisions. A faster, more affordable alternative to court.
Start now →Financial & Property Mediation
Discuss property, pensions, savings and financial settlement in a structured, impartial setting. £500 voucher available for eligible cases.
Get started →All Issues Mediation
Resolve child arrangements and finances together in one joined-up process, keeping everything moving at the same pace.
Find out more →Online & Virtual Mediation
Attend from anywhere by secure video call. Evening and weekend sessions available, ideal if you and your ex-partner live apart.
Learn more →Shuttle Mediation
If sitting in the same room is not right for you, your mediator moves between you, keeping discussions calm and productive.
Ask about shuttle →
Part of the Mediate UK Family
Mediation Dorset is a partner branch of Mediate UK, the UK’s top-rated family mediation service, celebrating 15 years of helping families move on. You get a local Dorset service backed by a national team of accredited mediators and partner solicitors.
Meet Your Mediators
Accredited Mediators, Based in Dorset
Kate Miller
Accredited Family Mediator (FMCA)
Law degree and a Master’s in International Human Rights Law, with a background in mental health support. Kate specialises in both financial and parenting mediation. Member of the FMC and FMA.
Chris Yaffes
Accredited Family & Child-Inclusive Mediator (FMCA)
Practising since 2013, Chris originally trained as a lawyer and specialises in complex, expatriate and international separations. Member of the FMC, FMA and Resolution.
Family Mediation Across Dorset
Our office at 28c Somerleigh Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1TQ sits in the heart of Dorchester, a short walk from Brewery Square. We help families across Dorchester, Weymouth, Poole, Bournemouth and Bridport, and the wider county, with online appointments available UK-wide within 48 hours.
By appointment only. Our office is not staffed full time and cannot accept visitors without a prior appointment.
Free Tools and Support
Support for Every Part of Your Separation
Alongside mediation, these free resources from our network can help you keep things calm, informed and constructive.
Free Parenting Plan
Create a personalised parenting plan covering holidays, weekends, handovers and communication, then download it instantly.
Build your plan →Message Tone Checker
Paste a message to your ex-partner and get an instant read on how it may land, before you press send.
Check a message →Emotional Support
The Divorce Circle is a free, safe space to ask questions, share experiences and get support from people who understand.
Join the Circle →Child Maintenance
Clear, neutral answers on child maintenance and every way to arrange financial support for your children.
Get answers →Content on this site is written and reviewed by Jess Knauf, Director of Client Strategy at Mediate UK. Mediation Dorset is part of the Mediate UK network, led by Managing Director Belinda Atkins. Our mediators are accredited by the Family Mediation Council.
Ready to Get Started?
A less stressful, quicker and more affordable way to resolve issues on separation, divorce and child arrangements in Dorset.
Online MIAMs available within 48 hours, or in person at our Dorchester office.
Not ready to book a MIAM yet? Speak to our friendly team first. We offer a free 15-minute, no-obligation call to explain your options and help you decide the best next step.