Family Group Conferencing (FGC): Empowering Your Family to Find Its Own Solutions
Sometimes, navigating complex family challenges requires more than just the immediate parties. When significant decisions need to be made about the care, well-being, or future of children, or to resolve broader family issues, harnessing the strength and wisdom of the entire family network can be the most effective path forward.
Family Group Conferencing (FGC) is a unique, family-led decision-making process. It brings together family members, their chosen support people, and professionals involved, in a structured and confidential setting. The core principle of FGC is to empower the family to develop their own solutions and plans, drawing on their collective strengths and knowledge, rather than having solutions imposed upon them.
Who is this service for?
Family Group Conferencing is particularly beneficial for families facing:
Complex parenting disputes where broader family support is needed to implement plans.
Challenges related to child well-being, safety, or care where a whole-family approach is desired.
Situations involving youth justice or child protection concerns where family-driven solutions are sought.
Elder care decisions or other significant family transitions requiring collective input.
Any family seeking to collaboratively resolve a significant challenge by engaging their wider support network.
How does it work? A Family-Led Process
FGC is guided by a neutral facilitator (the Family Group Conference Coordinator) who ensures a safe and productive environment, but the decision-making power rests firmly with the family. The process typically involves several stages:
Preparation: The Coordinator meets individually with key family members, professionals, and support people to explain the process, build trust, and ensure everyone understands their role.
Information Sharing: In the initial part of the conference, relevant professionals (e.g., social workers, educators, lawyers) share information about the concerns and what support is available.
Private Family Time: This is the heart of FGC. The professionals leave the room, and the family (including chosen support people) has private time to discuss the issues, explore options, and develop their own plan to address the concerns. This private time is crucial for empowering the family's voice.
Agreement & Planning: The family then presents their proposed plan to the Coordinator and professionals. Discussions ensue to ensure the plan is safe, realistic, and can be supported by all parties involved.
Review: Follow-up sessions may be arranged to review the plan's progress and make any necessary adjustments.
This process respects family autonomy and utilises their inherent strengths to achieve sustainable outcomes.
Outcome Goals: Empowered Solutions & Stronger Networks
Through Family Group Conferencing, our goal is to help families:
Create realistic, practical, and sustainable plans that address their unique challenges.
Empower the family unit to take ownership of their solutions and decisions.
Strengthen family relationships and support networks, fostering resilience.
Improve communication and collaboration within the broader family system.
Avoid the need for external parties (like courts or agencies) to impose decisions.
Enhance the safety and well-being of children or vulnerable family members.
Key Benefits of Choosing FGC
Family Empowerment: The family designs their own solutions, leading to greater commitment and success.
Holistic Approach: Utilises the collective wisdom, resources, and support of the entire family network.
Sustainable Outcomes: Plans created by the family are often more practical, culturally appropriate, and lasting.
Reduced Conflict: Focuses on collaboration and shared responsibility, de-escalating tensions.
Increased Support: Identifies and strengthens the natural support systems within the family and community.
Child-Centred: While empowering the whole family, the ultimate focus remains on the safety, needs, and well-being of the children.
Privacy & Respect: Conducted in a confidential and respectful environment that values family autonomy.
Ready to harness your family's collective strength to find solutions?
Contact Family Pathways WA today to to discuss how Family Group Conferencing can empower your family to move forward together.