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

You'll usually need:

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

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

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.

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

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 of equality and diversity issues
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

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

You could work in an office.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.