Paying parties referred to mediation by the judiciary can use the first 2.5 hours of this form of mediation for free. For parties with a legal aid contribution, nothing changes. They can go through a mediation process at no cost with a legal aid contribution.
The initial contribution is intended to allow people to experience whether mediation can be a suitable way for them to resolve a conflict. Financial concerns will not hinder a first acquaintance with this form of mediation.
More information can be found on the website of the Legal Aid Board: Introduction of the initial contribution for mediation from March 1, 2023.