Family mediator

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• volunteering
• applying directly
• training with a professional association

University

You could do a degree or postgraduate diploma to get some of the skills you need for this job.

Relevant subjects include:

• social work
• law
• counselling
• psychology
• psychotherapy
• education

Training programmes

You'll improve your job prospects if you take an accredited training programme after university. The programme has to be approved by the Family Mediation Council (FMC) .

Training programmes include:

• a taught course
• practical experience
• support to build a portfolio

In addition to a degree, training providers may expect you to have experience dealing with conflict and managing relationships.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Volunteering

You might find it easier to join a training course if you volunteer to work with families at places such as:

• family support centres
• counselling services
• child contact centres
• local community mediation services

DirectApplication

You can apply for a job as a trainee family mediator if you have a higher education qualification and experience in law, social work or counselling.

When you apply, you'll need to show you have the right personal qualities and skills to be a family mediator.

OtherRoutes

You've also got the option to train with a professional association.

Each association sets their own criteria to join but most will expect you to have experience from paid work or volunteering.

Professional associations that offer training include:

• Family Mediators Association
• National Family Mediation
• Resolution

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• persuading and negotiating skills
• active listening skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of equality and diversity issues
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of psychology
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to work on your own
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to read English
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent written communication skills
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• customer service skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Family mediators help separating couples agree on future plans without having to go to court.

In this role you could:

• listen to your client and work out what they need your help with
• help your clients talk to each other fairly and respectfully
• discuss issues like where a child will live, property and money
• keep accurate and confidential records of discussions
• summarise agreements in writing
• recognise when mediation is not working
• work with solicitors and courts when necessary

Location : You could work in an office.
Environment : Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

Salary:

Starter : £19,000
Experienced : £38,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

35 - 37 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends attending events or appointments

Career Path:

With experience you could:

• set up your own mediation business
• train other mediators
• manage a team of mediators
• use your skills in other careers, such as housing or social work