Family Mediation Practicum Project
If you are in the process of separating or divorcing, you may be able to work out disagreements through mediation, rather than going to court. The Family Mediation Practicum Program has been operating in New Westminster since January 2004 and provides free mediation services for family disputes about custody, access, guardianship, child support, and family dynamics. We also provide affordable mediation services for property and asset division for couples going through separation.
One of the objectives of the program is to expand the number of qualified family mediators in the province. In the program each mediator is guided by a senior, highly trained mediator (or mentor), who assists the mediator to prepare for and conduct each session.
An evaluation of the Family Mediation Practicum Program was completed in June 2005. The study found that the program had successfully achieved all its objectives. Exceptionally high satisfaction ratings were reported by clients who participated in mediation, by mediators and by program mentors. Click here to read the full report.
If you think you might like to try to resolve a family dispute through mediation, contact the Family Mediation Practicum Program at 604 516-0788 for fmpp@drinnovation.com more information about the free and affordable services it provides. Click here to be directed to the FMPP website.
If you are interested in becoming a mediator in the program, please submit an application form; Family Relations Practicum Application Form, Comprehensive Practicum Application Form. You will be contacted by program staff about the next available class of mediators. If you are interested in becoming a program mentor, please contact the program directly to obtain an application form.
The program receives funding from the Law Foundation of BC and the BC Ministry of Attorney General. It is administered by a non-profit society, the DR Innovation Society (formerly the BC Dispute Resolution Society). The society has experience in providing practicum opportunities for mediators and mediation services. Currently, it administers the Court Mediation Program in several Provincial Court Small Claims registries.
