Training to be a Mediator

Being a mediator can be stimulating and rewarding. Many people in Scotland work as volunteer mediators. Mediators enjoy helping people resolve their disputes and improve their relationships for the future. However, developing a mediation practice requires a major time-commitment and is not a reliable source of income in Scotland at this time.

The best way to begin is to undertake a basic mediation course of at least 30 hours. Mediation courses are offered by commercial and voluntary sector organisations. After the basic mediation course, there are additional mediation training courses you can choose, to develop and maintain your skills. The Scottish Mediation Register require mediators to do at least 12 hours Continuing Practice Development (CPD) each year.

Becoming a skilled mediator requires more than training; it requires experience and feedback. After you have taken training, the next best step is observation and co-mediation with experienced mediators. You will need to make contact with other mediators to find opportunities to get this experience.

Mediation is both an art and a science. The process is deceptively simple and straightforward. However, good mediators are highly trained, experienced and skilled. We advise interested people to have patience and to take a long-term view of developing their mediation practice