Training - Frequently Asked Questions
General
The ADR Group appreciates there are many organisations providing Civil and Commercial Mediation Training. Here is some information to help you choose the right provider:
I am interested in becoming a mediator but unsure in which field, Civil and Commercial or Workplace? Can you advise me on which one will be right for me?
Choosing the right course is an important decision. Mediators should start by thinking about what type of cases they are likely to mediate once qualified.
Commercial Mediation
Civil & Commercial mediation can vary between neighbour disputes with little or no value through to multi-million pound contract disputes. Litigation proceedings have often started. Civil and Commercial mediators generally focus more on negotiation rather than relationship building.
Workplace Mediation
Workplace mediation generally focuses on disputes between employers/employees, team members/line managesr or whole teams within a department. Disputes often arise at an earlier stage than Commercial mediation. Workplace mediation focuses on the psychology of conflict, human interests and needs and relationship building as parties will often continue a relationship following the dispute.
There are so many mediation training providers. What makes ADR Group’s course different from the rest?
The ADR Group was the first mediation training provider in the UK and was the first to introduce and formalise standards of the professional mediator. The ADR Group has continued to lead efforts in the development of the field and went on to become founding members of the two recognised regulatory bodies in the UK:
We are a serious provider leading the field in mediation and other forms of ADR. We continually invest our efforts in improving our training courses ensuring that they are current and innovative and exceed the minimum requirements of standards set by the accreditation body, the Civil Mediation Council (CMC).
Why are your courses more expensive than some other training course providers?
ADR Group training is competitively priced compared with other leading organisations offering similar quality services. We continually invest in improving our courses, keeping up with and exceeding industry standards. We also invest heavily in the quality of our trainers ensuring that the team are made up of highly experienced current practising mediators. Training with the ADR Group will ensure you receive a recognised accreditation.
There are so many course providers that show the Civil Mediation Council (CMC) logo. Does this mean their courses are registered and meet the standards of the Civil Mediation Council?
The Civil Mediation Council (CMC) recognises a large numbers of mediation service providers and these providers are given use of the CMC logo. However, only a handful of these organisations are recognised to provide mediation training. This causes confusion to potential trainees and some of these mediation service providers offer ‘unrecognised’ training. Just because a mediation services provider shows the CMC logo, this does not mean their training is registerted by the CMC. If in doubt, always check with the CMC.
Civil and Commercial / Workplace
What qualifications or experience do I need to attend the programme?
In order to fully engage in the role play aspects of the course, participants require a strong command of the English language. There are no other particular course pre-requisites other than willingness to engage in shared learning through role plays and interactive exercises. Knowledge of law is helpful, but not essential.
Am I able to practice as a mediator once I have successfully completed the course and received my accreditation certificate?
Yes, once you have been accredited you can market yourself as a qualified and accredited mediator.
Is mediation practice regulated in the UK?
There is no mandatory requirement for mediators to be regulated in the UK. However, it is recommended that mediators follow the CMC’s Practice and Standards. These can be found on the CMC’s website.
How do I pick up my first appointment and get my mediation career going?
Like with any qualification, the onus is on the individual to establish their mediation career. Helpful advice would be to self-market yourself as well as registering with a mediation provider organisation. It’s important to remember organisations like the ADR Group can assist in developing your mediation career but should not been seen as a substitute for providing you with your mediation appointments.
Will my accreditation expire?
No. However, as with any profession it is always recommended to keep up with your practise and standards as prescribed by the Civil Mediation Council.