7. FGC Plans

In a Family Group Conference (FGC) plan, several elements contribute to its effectiveness in guiding the decision-making process and supporting positive outcomes for the family.

Emotional statements play a significant role in an FGC plan. These statements reflect family members’ emotions, love, and support for each other. For example, a grandparent may express their love for their daughter and commitment to supporting her through her challenges. Emotional statements help create a sense of empathy and understanding within the plan.

Supportive aims are another essential component of a FGC plan. These aims outline the specific support that family members are willing to provide each other. For instance, a grandparent may express their commitment to keeping an eye on their daughter and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the house. Supportive aims demonstrate a willingness to contribute actively to the family’s well-being.

An FGC family plan should include specific actions that family members are willing to undertake. These actions outline practical steps that individuals will take to fulfil their commitments. For example, a grandparent may specify that they will call every Monday at 3 pm with their vacuum to assist with housework. Specific actions provide clarity and accountability, translating commitments into tangible efforts.

One of the key principles in FGC coordination is leaving the planning process to the family. The coordinator’s role is to facilitate and guide the discussion, but ultimately, the family members determine the plan’s content. This approach empowers the family, allowing them to take ownership of their decisions and fostering a sense of autonomy and responsibility.

In Holland, an online social networking approach has been adopted for FGC plans. The use of technology allows for efficient communication and collaboration among family members. The provided video and PDF guide offer resources for understanding and implementing this approach, allowing families to create and share their FGC plans effectively.

A comprehensive FGC plan includes emotional statements, supportive aims, and specific actions. These elements reflect the emotional connections, support, and practical steps family members are willing to take. The coordinator’s role is to facilitate the planning process, leaving the family to make their own decisions and empowering them to take ownership of the plan. Online social networking approaches can enhance communication and collaboration within the planning process.

The ultimate goal of a Family Group Conference is to produce a plan to support the individual or family in their situation and move forward with their lives.

The plan is essential. Practically, it provides everything from concerns to support, implementation, and details to ensure everyone involved is on the same page and understands their roles and commitments. Emotionally, it provides a space for the individual and family network to have a transparent conversation, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives and needs. It’s like breaking the barrier and allowing the love to flow through, as it’s almost certain that those who agreed to be involved care for and love the individual or the family and want to support them.

A skilled FGC coordinator is a facilitator and an essential factor in bringing everyone together and creating the environment for this process.