Post Agreement Mediation (PAM): Helping Families Move Forward

Post Agreement Mediation (PAM) is a specialised form of family mediation designed for parents who already have a parenting agreement or Child Arrangements Order in place—whether reached through family mediation or imposed by the Family Court. When these agreements stop working, become outdated, or are no longer practical due to changing family circumstances, PAM provides a constructive, child-focused space to resolve issues and make new arrangements.

What is Post Agreement Mediation?

Post Agreement Mediation is a structured, solution-focused process that supports separated parents in reviewing and adjusting existing agreements. It helps families avoid the emotional stress, financial cost, and delays associated with returning to court. PAM is led by accredited family mediators who are trained to facilitate communication, manage conflict, and keep the focus on what is best for the children.

Who is PAM for?

  • Parents with an existing parenting agreement made through mediation or by a court order
  • Families whose situations have changed and need to update child arrangements
  • Parents struggling to implement existing agreements due to communication issues or unresolved conflict
  • Families who want to avoid court and find practical, lasting solutions through mediation

How Family Mediation Works in PAM

Family mediation is a confidential, voluntary process that helps parents resolve disputes through guided discussion. In PAM:

  • Each parent attends a one-to-one assessment meeting (MIAM or PCIAM) to evaluate the situation and confirm suitability
  • The mediator facilitates joint sessions, helping parents work through key issues and develop mutual understanding
  • All decisions remain in the hands of the parents—no legal judgments are made by the mediator
  • The process can result in a new parenting plan or amendments to an existing one, which may be submitted to court if needed

Benefits of Post Agreement Mediation

  • Child-focused: Prioritises children's welfare and emotional needs
  • Cost-effective: Cheaper than returning to court
  • Flexible: Adaptable to changing family dynamics
  • Empowering: Supports parental collaboration and autonomy
  • Efficient: Avoids delay and streamlines resolution

What Issues Can Be Resolved in PAM?

  • Review and revision of parenting agreements
  • Adjustments to contact schedules and co-parenting plans
  • Disagreements over holidays, handovers, and travel
  • Practical issues and communication difficulties

Nationwide Access Across England and Wales

Post Agreement Mediation is now open to families across England and Wales. There are no regional restrictions. All cases are delivered in line with the national mediation standards and eligibility criteria.

Fees and Funding

PAM is delivered under standard family mediation processes. Costs are aligned with our regular Family Mediation pricing, which can be found on The Family Mediation Trust's website. Legal Aid is available for eligible families.

How to Get Started with PAM

  1. Book a PCIAM (Post Agreement Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting)
  2. Initial Assessment: Each parent has a separate meeting to explore the issues and determine suitability
  3. Engagement: We invite the other parent to take part, and if both agree, we proceed
  4. Mediation Sessions: Tailored joint sessions are held with an experienced family mediator
  5. Revised Agreement: A new parenting plan is drafted where appropriate

Why Choose The Family Mediation Trust?

The Family Mediation Trust is a trusted national provider of family mediation services, known for professionalism, accessibility, and putting children first. Our mediators are experienced in handling complex family dynamics and supporting clients through change with skill, sensitivity, and impartiality.

Referral for Professionals

If you're working with separated parents or families struggling to manage existing court orders or agreements, refer them to us using our Referral Form. We will assess the situation and provide tailored support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this the same as Parenting Coordination?A: No. We no longer offer Parenting Coordination. PAM is a pure mediation process and does not involve any decision-making powers or third-party enforcement.

Q: Is PAM confidential?A: Yes. Mediation is confidential, with exceptions only for safeguarding and legal requirements.

Q: Can PAM work where there's a history of domestic abuse?A: All cases are carefully assessed. Shuttle mediation and other safeguarding measures can be used when appropriate.

Q: What happens if one parent refuses to attend?A: Mediation is voluntary. If one parent declines, we can advise on next steps including other mediation options or court-based routes.


Start Your Mediation Journey Today

If you are ready to revisit your agreement, avoid court, and put your children first, Post Agreement Mediation can help.

Book a PCIAM

Contact Us

Referral Form


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