Professional Practice Consultants (PPCs)

Every practising family mediator in the UK – regardless of experience – is required to work with a Professional Practice Consultant (PPC). PPCs are highly experienced mediators who are specially trained to provide professional supervision, guidance, and support ongoing development.

Working with a PPC is an essential part of maintaining safe, effective mediation practice and meeting professional standards set by the Family Mediation Council.

What Does a PPC Do?

Your PPC is your first point of contact for professional questions or challenges that arise in your mediation work. They will:

• Provide confidential professional supervision
• Help you reflect on and develop your mediation skills
• Support your continuing professional development (CPD)
• Identify relevant training opportunities
• Assist you in building confidence and good practice

Regular contact with your PPC ensures you continue to grow as a mediator while working safely and ethically.

How PPCs Are Allocated

The Family Mediators Association allocates a PPC to trainees at the end of Foundation Training.
Not all training providers offer this, but we believe it gives new mediators a strong and supported start to their professional journey.

Allocations are made carefully to suit each trainee’s background and needs. For example, a mediator from a legal background may be paired with a PPC from a therapeutic or social science background to provide balance and broaden perspective.

Location is also considered so that meetings can take place in person where possible, while avoiding pairing mediators who are in direct competition for work.

Can You Change Your PPC?

Yes. Mediators are free to choose another PPC from the FMA register or from another organisation recognised by the Family Mediation Council.
All FMA PPCs are also recognised by the Legal Aid Agency.

How Much Does PPC Support Cost?

Mediators must complete a minimum of four hours of PPC supervision each year.

Typical PPC fees range from £100 to £150 per hour, meaning annual supervision costs are usually in the region of £400 to £600.

When planning your mediation career, you should budget for:

• PPC supervision
• Continuing professional development (CPD)
• Professional memberships

Building Your Practice

Neither the FMA nor your PPC provides work directly. Mediators are responsible for developing their own practice, including gaining experience and building professional connections.

However, PPCs actively support new mediators by offering guidance, encouragement, and introductions to others who may assist.