Train as a family mediator

We offer training to equip people to work as family mediators within Services that are members of Relationships Scotland. The Certificate in Family Mediation consists of two modules and does not assume any prior knowledge of mediation. Module One-Certificate in Family Mediation (Accredited) covers the social and legal context of family life in Scotland; the needs of children and families, particularly those experiencing separation or divorce/dissolution; managing risk in mediation; the process and practice of mediation (both in-person and using online technology); and the underlying theories such as conflict and power. Module Two-Certificate in Family Mediation (Registered) builds upon the learning from module one and integrates learning from mediation practice, self-directed reading and CPD training events.

In addition, we offer training for experienced mediators such as the Certificate in Mediator Supervision and Consultation with Children and Young People in Mediation course. We also offer continuing professional development courses and events for mediators to develop their knowledge and skills further and can deliver customised training for organisations interested in mediation, and the skills associated with mediation.

We have over 30 years of experience in delivering training for family mediators. Our mediation course is managed, delivered and awarded by Relationships Scotland and leads to an award on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. The course is credit rated by the University of the West of Scotland and awarded 50 credits at SCQF level 9. External professional validation is from The College of Mediators. Relationships Scotland is approved as an organisation to accredit mediators by the Lord President of the Court of Session. As a result, family mediators who successfully complete Module One of our training can join the Relationships Scotland Register of Family Mediators and the confidentiality of the mediation process is then protected under the Civil Evidence (Family Mediation) (Scotland) Act 1995.

An important aspect of the development of mediators in training with Relationships Scotland on the Certificate in Family Mediation is the link between mediation practice, theory and self-reflection. The mediation practice element of the course is completed in a Service that is a member of Relationships Scotland. Mediators in training are supported by their Member Service through regular supervision, national policies and procedures, and access to CPD events and other opportunities.

It is important that family mediators are articulate and interested in people, with excellent communication and listening skills. It is desirable that they have a qualification or experience in a related field. They are expected to be able to work at degree level (SCQF level 9) and to be computer literate. The selection criteria can be found in our Certificate in Family Mediation Course Guide.

Participants need to have a practice base in a Service that is a member of Relationships Scotland. Selection is carried out by Member Services who recruit according to their need for more mediators.

Yes, Member Services follow a formal selection process for the Certificate in Family Mediation which includes the completion of an application form and an interview. However not every Member Service needs to train mediators each year, Member Services would recruit according to their need for more mediators.

Our training is delivered by qualified and experienced mediators and trainers from the National Office or the Relationships Scotland network. We also bring in specialist presenters where appropriate.

The CFM is a part-time course and completion of the course within 2years requires approximately 5hours commitment per week. The CFM requires approximately 500 hours of student learning.  This takes place through Distance Learning (195 hours), Facilitated Learning (85 hours) and Service Based Practice Learning (220 hours) and a key element of the course is integrating the learning from these different areas. The Certificate in Family Mediation consists of two modules:

MODULE ONE-CERTIFICATE IN FAMILY MEDIATION (ACCREDITED)

This module is designed to build upon the experience that trainees bring and to introduce them to the basic knowledge, understanding and practice skills required to be a competent family mediator and to achieve Accredited Mediator status. The learning is designed in three Units and includes ten training days over six weekends.  The course is assessed through the completion of written work, assessed skills practice and assessed mentored co-mediation practice, which requires trainees to reflect upon their competence as a mediator.

MODULE TWO-CERTIFICATE IN FAMILY MEDIATION (REGISTERED)

This module encourages Accredited Mediators to build upon their learning from Module One-CFM (A) and to integrate their learning from mediation practice, self-directed reading and CPD training events.  This leads to Registered Mediator status with Relationships Scotland. The main focus of the learning is through mediation practice with over half of these hours through Service Based Practice Learning, the remainder are through Distance Learning and Facilitated Learning.  The course is assessed through the completion of written work, assessed mediation practice and a Registration Panel.

The CFM is part-time and a significant proportion of it is distance learning, providing a great deal of flexibility. Module One-CFM(A) training days take place on weekend dates that are fixed and it is important that everyone participates in these. Training Days 1-8 take place in-person and Training Days 9 and 10 are delivered online. The Service Based Practice Learning is arranged with the Member Service. Mediation is offered during the day although it can be offered to clients in the evenings and at weekends depending on the Member Service. Mediators need to be flexible and available for practice, supervision and meetings.

The training is managed, delivered and awarded by Relationships Scotland and leads to an award on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. The course is credit rated by the University of the West of Scotland and awarded 50 credits at SCQF level 9. External professional validation is from The College of Mediators.

Upon successful completion of Module One-CFM(A) mediators achieve Accredited mediator status with Relationships Scotland and are eligible to solo mediate within the Member Service. Upon successful completion of Module Two-CFM(R) mediators achieve Registered mediator status with Relationships Scotland. Accredited and Registered mediators are protected under the Civil Evidence (Family Mediation) (Scotland) Act 1995.

Accredited mediators meet the training requirements to join the Scottish Mediation Register of Mediators for categories other than Family (Divorce and Separation) mediation. There may be specific requirements for mediation practice in other contexts. Registered mediators can also be listed for Family (Divorce and Separation) mediation. It is Relationships Scotland’s expectation that students on our courses would not practice privately in areas that they are not yet qualified in, unless on a sanctioned placement.

This may vary between Member Services due to local funding. The cost of training to be a family mediator is subsidised by the Member Service and the National Office. Students may also be expected to make a financial contribution. Further information about the cost of training to be a family mediator can be discussed with the Member Service manager.

If relevant training in family mediation has already been undertaken, it may be possible to gain exemption from certain parts of the course. Assessment is made through the Relationships Scotland Accreditation of Prior Learning and Experience (APLE) process. Each application is considered on its own merit and evidence of prior learning or experience needs to be provided. Training in mediation in contexts other than Family (Divorce and Separation) would not meet the requirements of the APLE process.

The expectation is that mediators would continue working for their Member Service after the successful completion of their training.  This is often on a sessional basis, with times agreed between the mediator and the Member Service to meet client needs. Most Services pay an hourly rate, although some mediators are employed for a certain number of hours per week and some work on a voluntary basis.

All mediators are required to meet the Relationships Scotland Practice Standards for Family Mediators in order to remain on the Relationships Scotland Register of Family Mediators.  This includes undertaking a minimum of 15hours of mediation practice, supervision and continuing professional development per year. Some mediators go on to train as supervisors or child consultant mediators.  Some mediators get involved in other roles in their Member Service such as facilitating Parenting Apart information sessions or supporting families in child contact centres