Family mediator
Family mediators help separating couples agree on future plans without having to go to court.
- Starter salary£19,000 a year
- Experienced£38,000 a year
- Typical hours35 to 37 a week
What you'll do
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
Working environment
You could work in an office.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- 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 and understanding of society and cultures
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a family mediator
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
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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
Direct application
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.
Other routes
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
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
Career path and progression
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
Career tips
Many people become a family mediator as a second career. Employers will like it if you have life experience and evidence of supporting people with challenging problems.
Guides for this industry
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