Why Its Important to Choose an FMCA-Accredited Family Mediator

When people are separating or considering family mediation, they may come across different terms, titles, and accreditations. One of the most common is FMCA accreditation, which stands for Family Mediation Council Accredited.

This blog provides general information about what FMCA accreditation means, why professional standards matter in family mediation, and how this accreditation fits within the wider mediation framework in England and Wales.

This blog is for general information only. Family mediators do not give legal advice.

What Is FMCA Accreditation?

FMCA accreditation is awarded by the Family Mediation Council (FMC), the professional body responsible for setting standards for family mediation in England and Wales.

Family mediators who hold FMCA status have completed a recognised process demonstrating that they meet nationally agreed standards of competence and professionalism.

FMCA accreditation indicates that a mediator has:

• Completed recognised family mediation training

• Demonstrated practical experience in mediation

• Been assessed against professional competency standards

• Agreed to work in line with the FMC Code of Practice

Why Professional Standards Matter in Family Mediation

Family mediation often involves sensitive issues such as separation, finances, parenting arrangements, and ongoing family relationships. Professional standards exist to help ensure that mediation is delivered in a way that is safe, fair, and appropriate for everyone involved.

The FMC Code of Practice sets out expectations around:

• Impartiality – mediators do not take sides

• Confidentiality – discussions are kept private, subject to legal exceptions

• Voluntary participation – mediation is not compulsory

• Professional conduct – mediators work within clear ethical boundaries

These standards are designed to support trust and consistency across family mediation services.

Training and Experience in Family Mediation

Family mediation requires a distinct skill set. Mediators are trained to:

• Facilitate difficult conversations

• Manage strong emotions and conflict

• Support balanced participation

• Keep discussions focused and constructive

FMCA accreditation reflects that a mediator has undertaken and continues to undertake structured training and supervised practice specifically in family mediation, rather than in related professional fields.

Mediation and Legal Advice: Different Roles

Mediation and legal advice serve different purposes. Family mediators do not provide legal advice or tell people what decisions to make. Instead, mediation focuses on supporting communication and helping individuals explore options together.

Many people choose to seek independent legal advice alongside mediation, particularly when discussing finances or property. This combination allows people to understand their legal position while retaining control over decision-making through mediation.

Choosing a Family Mediator

When looking for a family mediator, people may wish to check:

• Whether the mediator is registered with the Family Mediation Council (FMC)

• What level of accreditation they hold

• Their experience in family mediation

• ·Whether they follow the FMC Code of Practice

These factors can help individuals understand the professional framework within which a mediator works. If a mediator is not accredited their name will not be listed on the FMC register.

How Pax Mediation Works

At Pax Mediation, all mediators are either FMCA-accredited or working towards accreditation with direct supervision from an FMCA accredited mediator, and all work in line with the Family Mediation Council’s professional standards.

Our role is to provide a neutral, structured environment where people can explore family-related issues calmly and constructively. We support individuals to have informed discussions and reach their own agreements, where possible.

If you would like to find out more about family mediation or how the process works, Pax Mediation can provide further information about next steps.