11. 5 Stages: Fulfilling 5 Needs in Family Group Conferencing
Family Group Conferencing (FGC) aims to fulfil five fundamental needs throughout its different stages. These needs ensure the process is effective, empowering, and supportive for all involved parties.
- Preparation Stage: Space and time for reflection
During the preparation stage of the process, individuals need space and time for reflection. This allows them to gather their thoughts, consider their goals, and prepare themselves emotionally for the upcoming conference. Providing a supportive environment that encourages introspection, and self-reflection helps participants enter the Family and Group Conference with clarity and a sense of readiness. Fully informing participants is crucial in this initial stage to ensure they understand what it looks like and their role so they can better prepare for the meeting.
- Information Sharing Stage: Good information about what’s happening
In the information-sharing stage, individuals need access to accurate and comprehensive information about the situation at hand. Clear and transparent communication is crucial to ensure that all participants have a shared understanding of the issues, concerns, and available options. Providing reliable information helps adults and their extended network make informed decisions and actively engage in decision-making. Ensuring everyone understands this could help participants focus on the concern without being distracted by other issues.
- Private Family Time Stage: Feeling in control and having supportive people present
During the private family time stage, individuals need to feel in control of the process and have supportive people present. This creates a safe and confidential space where family members and friends can freely express their thoughts, concerns, and desires without fear of judgment or external interference. Having supportive individuals present, such as extended family members or trusted professionals, can provide emotional support and facilitate productive conversations. It is essential to have honest discussions during this stage, which contributes to building a realistic plan to follow through.
- Agreeing the Plan: Confidence that things are going to be done
When agreeing on the plan, individuals need to have confidence that the decisions made during the conference will be effectively implemented. Establishing a clear plan with specific actions, responsibilities, and timelines is essential. Ensuring that the plan is realistic, achievable, and supported by relevant resources gives participants confidence that their agreed-upon decisions will be followed through.
- Review Meeting: Check back on how things are going
The review meeting stage provides an opportunity to assess and evaluate the progress of the implemented plan. Individuals need this stage to review and reflect on the outcomes, identify any challenges or successes, and make necessary adjustments. This ongoing feedback loop ensures accountability and allows for essential modifications to the plan, ensuring it remains responsive to changing circumstances.
Understanding these stages of the process can effectively support families in making informed decisions, fostering a sense of control, and achieving positive outcomes.