Foundations: Exploring families’ experiences of Family Group Conferences
Foundations is the “What Works Centre for Children & Families”.
Family Group Conferences (FGCs), a form of Family Group Decision Making (FGDM), are an evidence-based way to help children remain safely within their families rather than entering care. They are a voluntary, family led process in which relatives and close friends come together to create a support plan for a child, guided by an independent coordinator.
Existing evidence shows that FGCs used at the stage before a local authority starts care proceedings can reduce the number of children entering care, but far less was known about how families actually experience the process. Foundations have published a report on families’ experiences of Family Group Conferences (FGCs). The report paints a variable picture with significant variations in how – and how many – FGCs are offered and delivered, as well as recurring barriers to access and participation.
As family-first approaches are embedded across children’s social care, and a mandate for family-led approaches is making its way through Parliament in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, the report and practice briefing highlight what support local areas need to deliver FGCs effectively and identify how practice could be strengthened to widen access.
