Family Centred Conferencing / Alternate Dispute Resolution

What is Family Centred Conferencing (FCC)?

FCC is voluntary program which brings together family, extended family, friends, community partners, and service providers to discuss the care and safety issues of children in the family. FCC's are organized by the Family Conferencing Coordinator who remains neutral through the process. Conferences are a way for family and others involved to make decisions and plan for the children and will:

  • Identify strengths.
  • Discuss concerns.
  • Let the family establish goals for the meeting.
  • Services the best interests of the child(ren).
  • Respect the child(ren)'s culture and community by identifying resources and supports.
  • Protect the child(ren) from harm.

What is the process for a Family Centred Conference?

Families can start the process by discussing the program with their worker. If agreed upon:

  • A referral is filled out and consent forms are signed by the family.
  • A brief meeting is held with services within FACS to discuss strengths, concerns, and bottom lines/desired outcomes of the family.
  • The Family Conferencing Coordinator meets with the family to get their input and perspective before the family conference.
  • The Coordinator also meets with the child(ren) if they of an appropriate age to get their input for the conference. Children are encouraged to attend if it is agreed upon.
  • Participants are contacted and invitations are sent so they are aware of what is expected of them during a conference.

What can be expected on the Family Centred Conference Day?

All Family Centredconferences are chaired by the Coordinator and follow a set agenda. This helps the meeting stay on track and ensure that everyone attending has a chance to participate. The agenda is as follows:

  1. Welcome to everyone.
  2. Confidentiality agreement is signed.
  3. Purpose of the conference is reviewed.
  4. Guidelines are established.
  5. An "opening ceremony" chosen by the family is encouraged.
  6. Introductions and the "hope for the day" is shared.
  7. The family's story is shared.
  8. Updates on the children are given.
  9. Plans, assessments and available resources are reviewed.
  10. A guest speaker can be arranged to discuss related issues.
  11. Strengths, concerns and bottom lines/desired outcomes are discussed.
  12. A single agreement for service is developed.
  13. Closing.

Follow up is always encouraged as a way of keeping the agreement on track and to ensure that long-term goals are achieved.
 

For further information or to make a referral, please contact one of our offices.

 

For more information on Family Centred Conferencing, please see:


http://www.georgehullcentre.on.ca/

http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-children/programs/family-group-...