If you’re working towards accreditation with the Family Mediation Council (FMC), you’ve likely heard about PPC supervision. But what exactly are PPC hours and are they essential? In short — yes. Supervision with a Professional Practice Consultant is a core part of the accreditation process, alongside training, practical casework and portfolio preparation. This guide outlines what PPC hours involve, how to get them and what else is required to become a fully accredited family mediator in England and Wales.

How Do I Get Family Mediation Work Placement Hours for FMC Accreditation?

After completing FMC-approved foundation training, you’ll need to gain work placement hours by working on real family mediation cases. These hours are necessary for you to demonstrate your competency and start building a professional portfolio. Here’s how you can begin:

• Co-mediation: You’ll typically start by co-mediating with an experienced practitioner. This gives you a chance to apply your training in a real-world setting, with support and guidance throughout.
• Placement schemes: Some family mediation services offer formal placement programmes that include structured co-mediation and PPC supervision.
• Volunteering: If you’re unable to secure a placement through a mediation service, consider volunteering with local organisations that offer family support. These roles may not always involve direct mediation but they can contribute to your experience and show commitment.
• Recording and reflection: After each case, you’ll write up a summary and personal reflection, which will form part of your accreditation portfolio.

Where Can I Get Family Mediation Work Placement Hours for FMC Accreditation?

Finding suitable placements can be competitive, so you’ll need to be proactive. These are good places to start:

• FMC-registered mediation services: Contact services in your area to ask if they support trainees. Many offer placements that include both co-mediation and PPC supervision.
• Legal aid mediation providers: Organisations offering legal aid mediation may take on trainees, particularly if they have a high volume of cases.
• University-based services: Some university law clinics include family mediation services and may provide opportunities for trainees to observe or co-mediate.
• Training providers: Speak with the organisation where you completed your foundation training. They often have established links with services and PPCs who support new mediators.
• Professional networks: Organisations such as the Family Mediators Association or Resolution regularly share trainee opportunities and contacts.

In some cases, services that also operate in person mediation may offer opportunities to observe sessions or shadow trained professionals.

How Can I Gain Practical Experience for Family Mediation Accreditation?

Practical experience isn’t limited to co-mediation. You’ll also need to demonstrate that you’re developing your skills, applying them correctly and reflecting on your practice. Here’s what to focus on:

• Supervised practice: Your PPC will review your work, offer feedback and help you prepare your accreditation portfolio.
• Casework: The FMC requires that you work on at least three mediation cases, covering a minimum of ten hours.
• Self-reflection: After each session, reflect on how it went. What worked well? What would you approach differently next time? These insights are important and should be documented.
• Portfolio preparation: You’ll need to show that you meet the FMC’s competencies across a range of areas, from managing sessions to handling complex family dynamics.

Some aspiring mediators also benefit from shadowing a other mediators alongside their family practice. While your portfolio must focus on family mediation, working alongside a other mediators can still strengthen your general mediation skills — especially in communication, neutrality and conflict management.

What Are the Requirements for Completing Family Mediation Training?

To become an accredited family mediator through the FMC, you must complete the following:

1. FMC-approved foundation training: This provides the groundwork for your practice.
2. Ongoing supervision: You need to log at least 10 hours of one-to-one supervision with your PPC.
3. Practical casework: Complete three separate cases, totalling at least ten hours of actual mediation work.
4. Accreditation portfolio: This includes case summaries, personal reflections and evidence that you meet the FMC’s core competencies.
5. Continued development: Once accredited, you’re expected to take part in ongoing CPD and continue regular supervision to maintain your status.

Why PPC Supervision Is Essential

Your PPC plays a vital role in your development. They are more than just a sign-off for accreditation — they are your main source of guidance and feedback as you build your skills. Regular PPC supervision helps you:

• Work through challenging cases.
• Stay within professional standards and codes of practice.
• Improve your approach to different types of family disputes.
• Prepare your accreditation portfolio with clarity and confidence.

Without PPC support, you can’t apply for accreditation — but more importantly, you’ll miss out on essential learning and development opportunities that shape your professional practice.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Becoming an accredited family mediator takes time, focus and support. It’s not just about meeting the minimum requirements — it’s about developing into a confident, competent practitioner who can handle complex family situations with care. At Family Law Mediation, we help new mediators take the next step. Whether you’re looking for supervision, work placement opportunities or help with your accreditation portfolio, we’re here to support your progress. Get in touch with Family Law Mediation today to find out how we can help you become an accredited family mediator.